If you’re anything like me, one of your favorite reasons to read is for the
story. Not for the character development and interaction. Not because of the
descriptive, emotive powers of the writer. Not because of deep, literary meaning
hidden beneath layers of metaphor. (Even though those are all good things.) No …
it’s because you want to know what happens next?
Or, um, is it just me?
Of course it could mostly be for the story. But, I think without all those other things, sometimes the story just wouldn't matter to me at all. Then again, the back cover description is the main book-hooker for me most times; seeing as how it outlines what will happen in the story. So I guess what that would mean for me, I need a good mixture of all points listed above. It's all those things that are blended perfectly together that sweep me away in a book. For me, if there aren't any good characters to care about and wonder about while I'm doing something else besides reading or drifting off to sleep, then I won't really give two hoots about the actual story. So no I guess, not really just for the story, while I am reading as quickly as I can without ruining my reading experience, wanting to get to the next page to find out what happens, I need those heart-stirring characters and that sometimes poetic writing to want to take me there.
8 comments:
Like you, it's "the back cover description" that causes me to read or not read. But, I think that it outlines what will happen in the BEGINNING of story.
I like your answer... At first this week's question seemed simple, but when you think about it it's a mixture of things that keeps us reading.
Love the description of "heart-stirring characters." I feel the same way--plot is important, but it's not the only or most important thing.
I love Murakami, Kundera and Marquez. Not for story lines but how they write!
Booking through stories
I agree, we need it all...most of the time. Story, characters, setting, writing, it all goes together.
I usually pick book by it's cover. Then if the story is good it's a crap shoot. Usually I am surprised by the story and that is what keeps me going.
I feel exactly the same way -- all of those elements need to be blended to just the right degree.
I have an old, old board game called "221 B Baker Street", named, of course, after Sherlock Holmes address. It's fun. Well, I don't know if fun is the word, it's very statigic and you are supposed to "think" like Holmes. (I am mostly a candy land girl), but anyway, your comment to me reminded me that I have that game up in my game closet. I'm going to drag it out on the next rainy weekend.
Also, there is a great children's novel.."the Baker Street Irregulars". Have you ever read it? My son, who is about your age, loved it when he was young.
Post a Comment