Thursday, March 3, 2011

Alice -- through Chapter 12

**Don't read this until you've gotten through Chapter 12**

It's interesting what a change the book has taken from the first half -- which felt much more reminiscent of 'Alice in Wonderland,' versus the second section, which feels like any typical Jane Austen novel, where people are obsessed with their appearance, and who will think what, and getting married seems to be the biggest goal achieved in their life. However, I usually hate Jane Austen novels (yeah, yeah, I know it's not a popular thing to say), but I don't mind this book -- maybe because the writing style is still modern, and the only thing antiquated are the ideas.

Anyway, I'm curious as to what exactly happened that has become the hush-hush gossip of the town. I feel for poor Alice, who didn't know what she was doing, but I think I also feel sorry for Mr. Dodgson .. assuming I can get past the pedophilesque aspects of the story.

And what is the deal with Mr. Ruskin?!?! He is so creepy, and the whole blackmail situation is just all bad. It makes Alice look more guilty than she is.

Let me know your thoughts when you're at this part. I'm finally somewhat alive again, so am gonna continue reading, since I can't do anything but lie in bed right now. 

4 comments:

  1. I like that the characters are all very grey and you don't know what to feel towards them. I definitely feel bad for Mr. Dodgson as well as Alice.

    It seems like a lot of these characters are pitiful and have crappy things going on in their life, but as opposed to ELIC (Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close), I feel like the actions of these characters is more reasonable even in their dismal existence.

    I'm actually really enjoying this book so far. I think I may have to read Alice in Wonderland after this.

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  2. I finished this book last night and am working on a post, but will wait until everyone is done until I post it.

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  3. I also finished the book. Antara, have you? I don't feel like writing the first post and want to hear what people have to say. Neha, wanna do the honors?

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  4. Yupp, I also finished it last night, but I felt bad that we set a deadline for the 15th and are discussing it so much ahead of time. Neha, we'll let you start the discussion this time around.

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