What makes classic literature ?
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Why have Jane Austen's books survived the passing centuries ? what makes them classic novels ?
In a series of letters written to her niece, Fay Weldon explores the circumstances in which Jane Austen wrote her novels and discusses what makes the writing of some authors exceptional.
She uses the idea that books are like houses in a city of literature, some books fall quickly into disrepair and are no longer visited by the public, while others remain inviting and much visited for generations.This book really made me think about why I love some of my favourite books. I'd recommend this to all readers, not just stroppy teenage nieces !
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Glad not to be alive in Jane Austen's day
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Written to her neice who is struggling with Jane Austen's work, the most helpful thing about this book is the insight it gives into Austen's world. Readers today just don't share the same world view as Austen's readers,so it is helpful to realise just how grim the prospects were for women in her day. Marry, endangering your life in childbirth and commit your whole well being forever to your husband.Or, stay single, an object of pity and derision to your married relatives, living on their goodwill. This book is easily read but adds such a lot to an understanding of Austen's life and world.
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very fuuny!
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I think that this is one of the best Fay Weldon books i have read so far, it was very humorois at times and is a good read! Some of her thoughts are very wierd, not things that you would associate with everyday life. Highly recommended if your a bit of a book worm.
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