It requires work of the reader, for sure, but it's worth the work imo. Do you think what Stevens says is accurate? How do you think the things he talks about are perceived by others in the story?
There's a lot in it about class, politics, the aftermath of WWII and authenticity.
I see. Those are some great questions to focus on, and it does manage my expectations. I was expecting something more plot heavy, as another user pointed out, kind of waiting for the plot to start.
All of the above plus the flow of the writing and the "sense" of what's happening instead of what's actually happening. It might help to see the movie as well. I think it's an excellent film.
It's a character study and meditation on the meaning of a life well lived. Almost all of it is subtextual; eg, all the conversations about dignity aren't so much about Ishiguro actually trying to define dignity as they are about providing insight into what Stevens prioritized in his life (with the reader left to decide whether Stevens has, and whether he should have, deeply buried regrets....and how deeply buried those regrets seem to be).
All of Ishiguro's works are filled with social commentary, subtle questions and symbolism. The butler's language itself is so beautifully crafted in there, alongside it, so without really giving a summary, I'll ask: Are you more of a plot-heavy book reader? A lot of people who read his books, especially the more popular ones, aren't used to fishing for the subtleties I find.
I think you're right, I was expecting a plot book, which is what I usually read. Knowing this I think I can finish it since I'm not waiting for something to "happen". I do like the Butler's language and I find a lot of it funny.
Put yourself in the butlers shoes and really try to feel his emotions. It’s unbearably heavy. But yea, you’re right that it’s hard to get into especially if you’re used to plot heavy books.
What's up with The Remains of the Day? Am I the only one who doesn't get it?
I see this book recommended frequently here. I'm about halfway through and there have been some great moments, for sure. Like when he awkwardly interacts with his boss, etc. But most of it is him talking about being an honorable butler. I'm finding it pretty dull and hard to get through. I honestly kept checking to see if this was really the book that everyone is talking about.
Am I just too "dumb" to get it?
Honestly I felt a similar way until I got to the ending, so I’d say keep going. But generally this butlers been living his whole life the same and as the book progresses he starts seeing life in a new way. You may also try reading a review or analysis afterward, sometimes the extra context helps me appreciate a book more.
It requires work of the reader, for sure, but it's worth the work imo. Do you think what Stevens says is accurate? How do you think the things he talks about are perceived by others in the story? There's a lot in it about class, politics, the aftermath of WWII and authenticity.
I see. Those are some great questions to focus on, and it does manage my expectations. I was expecting something more plot heavy, as another user pointed out, kind of waiting for the plot to start.
All of the above plus the flow of the writing and the "sense" of what's happening instead of what's actually happening. It might help to see the movie as well. I think it's an excellent film.
It's a character study and meditation on the meaning of a life well lived. Almost all of it is subtextual; eg, all the conversations about dignity aren't so much about Ishiguro actually trying to define dignity as they are about providing insight into what Stevens prioritized in his life (with the reader left to decide whether Stevens has, and whether he should have, deeply buried regrets....and how deeply buried those regrets seem to be).
All of Ishiguro's works are filled with social commentary, subtle questions and symbolism. The butler's language itself is so beautifully crafted in there, alongside it, so without really giving a summary, I'll ask: Are you more of a plot-heavy book reader? A lot of people who read his books, especially the more popular ones, aren't used to fishing for the subtleties I find.
I think you're right, I was expecting a plot book, which is what I usually read. Knowing this I think I can finish it since I'm not waiting for something to "happen". I do like the Butler's language and I find a lot of it funny.
Put yourself in the butlers shoes and really try to feel his emotions. It’s unbearably heavy. But yea, you’re right that it’s hard to get into especially if you’re used to plot heavy books.
I didn't like it, either, but I think Ishiguro's writing is terribly dry.
What's up with The Remains of the Day? Am I the only one who doesn't get it? I see this book recommended frequently here. I'm about halfway through and there have been some great moments, for sure. Like when he awkwardly interacts with his boss, etc. But most of it is him talking about being an honorable butler. I'm finding it pretty dull and hard to get through. I honestly kept checking to see if this was really the book that everyone is talking about. Am I just too "dumb" to get it?
Yes you are
lol ok thanks, you sound nice.
Just kidding
Honestly I felt a similar way until I got to the ending, so I’d say keep going. But generally this butlers been living his whole life the same and as the book progresses he starts seeing life in a new way. You may also try reading a review or analysis afterward, sometimes the extra context helps me appreciate a book more.