Author Archives: alizey01

Week 13 – Requirement done…on track to graduation now

Yes yes, I was one of the students who took this class to fulfill my literature requirement. HOWEVER, I also chose this class specifically because after taking SPAN 312C with him (look at me promoting your other courses), I liked professor Beasley’s teaching style. Anyways, I have to say this course went by quite fast. Normally I feel like the spring semester drags onnnnn forever but with this class, it really didn’t feel like that! I’m gonna miss the ease of this class and the fact that I got to read a book every week (even if I didn’t like the book) because honestly I’m so sick of reading boring philosophy papers (…I love my major). With this class, I got the chance to read books that didn’t require me to memorize or analyze anything, it really was reading for the sake of reading and I loved that.

So far I’ve been very positive….so I have to say one negative thing (just one!). Compared to SPAN 312C I enjoyed the selection of books a bit less, this time around. Maybe it was the books I chose every week…but these books were lowkey depressing. The topics of death, loss and adolescence made me really think about my life, my childhood, teenage years and my future. It was A LOT to think about, especially during a very stressful and already emotional term. However, despite the sad and heavy topics I did (at times) enjoy being on the emotional rollercoaster some of the books put me on…even shedding a few tears (The Shrouded Women) because it was kinda like therapy.

Also, I have to point out very happily that BORGES or any book like it was not part of the syllabus this term (YAYYYYY). I mean I did hate some books (If on A Winter’s Night a Traveler) or found some books to be similar to Borges’ confusing writing style (Faces in the Crowd). However, despite that no book came close to the heavy, and I mean heavy, hatred that I felt when reading Borges. Therefore, I will say this was a very successful term :)

Overall, I really enjoyed reading all the different blog posts this term and getting new perspectives on the books we read. So, thank you all for making this a very fun and engaging term!

One last question to think about: This one is a bit random but if you could spend a day in the body of any of the characters we read about, who would it be and why? It doesn’t even have to be a character you like.

Week 12 – I think I found Borges’ twin (Faces in the Crowd)

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BROKE MY BRAIN. Let me start off by saying that I didn’t dislike like the novel…I was merely confused by it and tended to get lost at times when I was trying to follow along with the storyline. Also, before I begin an “analysis” of this book I have to mention that I didn’t enjoy the non-linear storytelling. We’ve had quite a few books this term that were non-linear and I never enjoyed reading those because following along without getting frustrated was never possible. I feel like linear writing brings a sense of structure and order, that I may not always experience in my everyday life, so I desperately crave for it in the books I read. Anyways, let’s move on before I over-analyze that statement and turn this into a therapy session.

The first few chapters of the novel made me feel really bad for the narrator. The difference between her life before and her life now, made me think about the benefits that come and go with living a life in solitary or with domestic responsibilities. However, as the story progressed I started feeling more uncomfortable. The uneasiness and displacement the narrator felt in her own life was felt by me…like I started questioning the space around me. I think the unconventional writing structure (not having proper chapters) added to that chilling environment being established in the novel. The lines between reality and fiction were blurred….with elements of supernatural added to it. Furthermore, if I’m being honest, there were times when I thought the narrator was dead. Like the way she slowly started withdrawing from her “former self” and increasingly became more and more withdrawn from society….which definitely made me think she was dead or was at least dying.

Moving on a bit from the death aspects, the metaphor “sustained breath” (pg.4) was so intriguing to read. She mentioned how she was “short of breath” but I feel like by the end she achieved the “sustained” she was looking for. The life she had before that she longed to have again, was full of temporary feelings that came and went, without a stable sense of self. However, with her children she found a different kind of solitude (that she didn’t fully realize) that repaired those feelings of loneliness…at least in my opinion. The ending was open-ended and for me a “sustained breath” was achieved.

Question to think about: It is mentioned that White (the narrator’s boss) constantly sees his dead wife at a tree outside his house, I’m curious to know what the importance of mentioning that was? It wasn’t expanded on further, yet it seemed like an important event. Was the author trying to convey an important message?

Week 11 – Respectfully Professor Beasley…what the HELL was this??

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Before I somewhat complain about this book, I HAVE to point out that Professor Beasley spoiled this book for me before I even started reading. Despite the MAJOR spoiler, I carried on and still read the book like a good student. I only wish the spoiler he had given me was an indication that the book wasn’t going to be good before I started it, so that I could have properly prepared myself.

Alright let’s begin now, this book really disappointed me. The premise of the book made it seem so intriguing and the opening line “The following day, no one died” drew me in….only for that intrigue to quickly disappear. However, before I begin “complaining” about the content of the book I have to say WHAT WAS THIS PUNCTUATION. Like are proper sentences and FULL-STOPS just not a thing anymore??? It genuinely isn’t hard to add periods to sentences, I mean at this point even a random period to end the ongoing comma loop would have been appreciated. I just know somewhere literature and english teachers are quaking in their shoes due to the lack of proper sentence structures. Also, before someone comes at me and says “it’s a stylistic choice”, respectfully I don’t care. No one, absolutely no one can convince me that writing sentences like this is a good choice because it absolutely isn’t.

Anyways, back to the books storyline. The exploration of life and death and what that means for every individual was interesting to read (when I wasn’t getting confused by the run-on sentences). It was an aspect of the book that I enjoyed because it highlighted how death isn’t necessarily a sad thing, it gives meaning and structure to life. However, death falling in love and struggling with her emotions to continue her tasks just seemed to cliche to me. Like not to be pessimistic but the notion of love conquers all just didn’t intrigue me or make sense to me. Like am I supposed to believe that if one day the Grim Reaper comes to me and I make him fall in love with me, I can live?? Like no, I don’t think that’s how it works.

Overall, the premise of the book was interesting but I just wish it was written better, especially regarding the punctuation. I will say that I don’t exactly hate this book, perhaps the right word is…detest.

Question to think about: This book got me thinking about how I would feel if death was declared “dead”. So, based on that if you found out death wasn’t a thing anymore, how would you feel? Would you rejoice in your new found immortality or wish to complete your life at some point?

Week 10 – Soooo Bonnie and Clyde but more….fucked up??? (except for Malito) (Money to Burn)

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These were some messed up characters. Like I don’t even know what to think about them…or even about this book for that matter. Also, why is that we haven’t read a single novel yet with a normal character?? Like no matter what anyone says all the characters we’ve read so far have been messed up in one way or another. However, I will say Malito’s character was a lot more sane and probably my favourite character in the entire novel. They were all morally ambiguous characters but he was my faveeeee (this blog post is basically gonna be a Malito fan account).

I think what really drew me into him was when his character was introduced, with the description of “He possessed a god of his own to watch over him. And a halo of perfection which led to everyone wanting to work with him,” (pg.9). I mean come on now, who wouldn’t be intrigued by a character like that?? He was such a fascinating and complex figure within the criminal underworld, even if he was somewhat…immoral.

Despite his role as a gangster, he was rational and had a strategic mindset, something I didn’t really expect from the characters we were introduced to. The other characters were all driven by impulse or greed, but Maltio had a much more calmer..ish approach that was based on thorough, calculated thinking (I mean makes sense…he was like the boss). Moreover, another aspect that truly fascinated me was how his character was able to navigate the murky water of the criminal world, while also mainting some semblance of integrity. He did bend the rules and was more than willing to commit crimes, but even then he maintained some control….moral compass???. I don’t really know what else to say about him, I just found him to be such a stark contrast from the other characters. Maybe I just find morally ambiguous individuals fascinating.

Moving on from Malito (*frowny face*), I will say I did not enjoy this book. I thought it was going to be more thrilling because of the bank robbery but sadly it wasn’t. I feel like the storyline was interesting but just wasn’t executed well enough, but oh well you can’t like every book. The only thing keeping me going was my love for Malito.

Question to think about: A bit of a simple question this week, but did you have a favourite character in this novel or someone you strongly hated? If so, who?

Week 9 – BRB Bleaching My Eyes Out Right Now (The Lover)

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Seriously, what in the world did I just read?? I mean, I’m all for books pushing boundaries and giving me a glimpse into the unexpected…but this one left me feeling so disturbed. I felt like I went through an emotional rollercoaster that delved deep into the darkest recesses of human desire. Like I enjoy reading books that are different and a bit weird but this was just really really disturbing. This was a weird, uncomfortable and sometimes disturbing novel, but at the same time that’s what made it so frickin fascinating…right? Before, I delve further into an “analysis” of the book I have to wonder how on earth someone comes up with a story like this (yes yes I know it’s semi-biographical), but the intensity and level of raw emotion was enough to frazzel my brain. However, I do realize that along with the disturbing aspects there is more going on beneath the surface.

Moving on, one of the main themes that Duras painted very vividly was the contrast in lifestyles between the two main leads. Their “forbidden” romance was interesting to read, not only because it challenged the expectations of society but it also highlighted the profound weight of social status and wealth, especially in their relationship dynamics. Touching a bit more on the difference in lifestyle, it was interesting to see how the protagonists modest family background and unstable financial situation, shaped her worldviews and aspirations. Despite her precarious upbringing she was observant and very independent and navigated the complexities of her family’s financial struggle quite well. Seeing the The stark contrast in how she was portrayed and how she thought was fascinating to read because her intellectual maturity didn’t really make her seem all that young. Moving on, I have to say that while their romance was a captivating read I will say I could have done without the *ahem* ferry scene…but I guess it did add to their passionate affair.

Also a bit of a side note but did this novel remind anyone of the novel “Lolita” by Vladimir Nabokov?? Cause both explored the complexities of a taboo relationship between a young girl and a much older man, but with this novel it was unique interesting to read the “love story” from the perspective of a female protagonist.

Question to think about: Why do you think Duras decided to end the novel with the protagonist and wealthy man not ending up together? Did it add a sense of realism?

Week 8 – What the actual f… (If on A Winter’s Night a Traveler)

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I hated this book. Hated it. I-I don’t even know how to describe my hatred for this book, there are no words to describe my feelings. If I could I would just end my blog post here because this pretty much sums up how I feel, but per the blog post requirements I shall continue.

I truly don’t understand the purpose of writing the novel this way, I understand that authors like to use different and unique stylistic choices but this…this was just a category on its own. At first I was intrigued with the way the novel was written, with the reader “you” being us and also kind of a separate character as well. However, as the story progressed my intrigue quickly turned to frustration that stayed consistent until the end. I couldn’t help but feel frustrated (beyond words) with the inconclusive endings for each mini story and my mind just couldn’t grasp why anyone would want to write a book like that. I had to put the book down a few times or even stop reading for the rest of the day because it kept frustrating me.

However, I will say I did like the character of Uzzi Tuzii because I felt like he added more depth to the stories that the Reader was encountering. He was a bit crazy and did over-analyze parts but I liked that about him because it showed how some of us really do overthink when it comes to stories we read. Not everything needs to have minor details added to it and over analyzing books can ruin the enjoyment, which is exactly what professor Uzzi did. Furthermore, the mini story “What story down there awaits its end?” was also enjoyable and a refreshing break from the other frustration inducing stories.

Also, I felt cheated at times because I would immerse myself into each story only for it end all of a sudden (like someone was yanking the book out of my hands). I feel like somewhere along the way my brain got rewired because of the constant interruptions and it hasn’t been the same ever since. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so mentally exhausted reading a book because this was like trying to solve a puzzle with missing pieces. Overall, I DID NOT LIKE THIS BOOK.

Question to think about: What was the point of this book? Like was their an overarching idea?? (because I don’t get it)

Week 7 – Navigating Loss on the Streets of Barcelona, in The Time of Doves

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Wow, reading this was a rollercoaster of emotions. Maybe because I never imagined myself reading this novel anywhere aside from my house and yet I found myself immersed in the story, while being on vacation in Barcelona…where the story unfolds. It was such a surreal experience to be walking through the same bustling plazas and narrow alleyways, as depicted in the novel, making it seem as if I had stepped into the novels pages. Being able to not only read it but experience the city, helped me create a deeper connection with Natalie, which allowed me to see the world through her own eyes.

One of the main themes that really stood out to me in novel was the focus on loss. It felt like loss permeated almost every corner of Natalie’s world, intertwining with the collective sadness and grief the nations people endured in the aftermath of the war. Through all that sorrow, there was one scene in particular that stayed with me, and that was the loss of Natalie’s husband, Quimet. His death was so tragic and honestly served as a reminder about how unpredictable and fragile life is. Despite everything he and his family had gone through during the war, it was a sudden accident that took his life. I also felt like after his death Natalie wasn’t the same anymore, she was left struggling with this grief and uncertainty, that did nothing but leave a void behind and as a reader you couldn’t help but feel the weight of her sorrow.

However, despite the struggles Natalie experienced, she demonstrated resilience in the face of adversity, which was remarkable. She didn’t let her grief consumer her completely and found the strength to carry on, not just for herself, but also for her family. Honestly, she was a pretty remarkable character, and quite possibly my favourite one so far.

Question to think about: I found Rodoreda’s writing style to be quite interesting and I’m curious as to why she chose this lyrical writing style to tell Natalie’s story. Did it contribute to the emotional impact of the novel?

Week 6 – Identity vs Belonging in Black Shack Alley

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I thoroughly enjoyed this book. In fact it might even be my favourite book that we’ve read so far. The storytelling and imagery was done beautifully in the novel and I felt like it was the most realistic and relatable read so far.” It made me truly appreciate the resources and privilege I had growing up cause damnnn (hopefully this isn’t considered swearing).

One of the key themes in the book that stood out to me was the theme of identity. Throughout the narration José was uncovering who he was which was intricately laced with his longing for belonging. He tried to uncover the pressures of academic success (something I think we can all relate to), while also trying to understand the difference between his personal values and those of his peers (again…we can all relate). I felt the dissonance between him and his classmates, while they were all eager to succeed and do well academically…José didn’t feel the same way. The quote “Nor did I share the anxiety with which each one measured up his chances of success. The subjects taught at the lycée did not inspire me in the least. I worked for working’s sake. I endured them.” (pg.155), reflected his detachment so clearly.

As I was reading I could feel him questioning his purpose and fulfillment in life, especially because it seemed like those around him had it “all figured out”. Moreover, José struggled to find a balance between staying true to his own “identity” while also conforming to the societal expectations that surrounded him. I couldn’t help but relate to him in that sense, constantly wondering if I’m falling behind (behind what?? I dunno) and if I’m meeting the standards set in society. His struggle with identity was so honest and raw.

Touching a bit more on the belonging and identity aspect, outside of academics he struggled to find a balance between the life surrounding his grandmothers shack and modern environment of the lycée. He was essentially living between two worlds that were on two very opposite ends and didn’t mend in together. I could feel José’s frustration between finding his own self while trying to find a place he belongs to, that intertwined his own heritage and the world of assimilation that he was surrounded in. Honestly, I really felt for José throughout his novel and even if he wasn’t frustrated…I was thoroughly frustrated for him.

Question to think about: A bit different from what I discussed but the character of George Roc intrigued me deeply maybe because of his pessimistic view. I’m curious about why the author wrote him as a character that reflects unhappiness and discontent?

Week 5 – The Enigma, Agostino

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Labyrinth. This story was a labyrinth of emotions and relationships, with an odd enigma in the center waiting to be discovered. Looking at the story the only adjective that comes to mind when describing Agostino as a character is strange. That was the first and perhaps only word I could think to describe the character of Agostino. He was such a…weird protagonist that evoked a myriad of emotions from me…none that were good. I did find him to be a bit captivating but also unsettling, that I couldn’t stop myself from reading further. I also don’t know if I liked or disliked him, I mean I enjoyed reading the book but I also felt so put-off by his character. I couldn’t help but think why Agostino? throughout the pages of the novel.

Moving on, one of the other pivotal aspects of the novel was the relationship between Agostino and his mother, which again was strange. It was a sort of dynamic that oscillated between overt emotional intensity, that was both obvious and subtle. As we delved into the unusual “bond” between mother and son, we explored the depths of their love, dependency on one another and unspoken tensions that all wove together like a tapestry. At times I found the bond between the two to be endearing but after a few pages it would feel a little unsettling, maybe the overly emotional connection was too much for me…..I dunno.

Perhaps the strangeness of Agostino’s character fitted perfectly with the unique mother and son relationship. There was a delicate balance between endearment and discomfort, that was all strung together by the emotionally intimacy they shared. Also, it felt as though the bond they had only added more fuel to the fire and made Agostino the way he was. His actions and decisions and sense of identity, was intertwined with the relationship with his mom.

Maybe I’ve spoken a little too negatively about their relationship or on Agostino’s overall character. I’m not saying it is bad to be a bit strange or to express your emotions to your mom, I was more so saying it was portrayed very differently and uniquely in this novel, making it all more interesting. I’ll stop here before I start rambling again about Agostino and his strangeness.

Question to think about: Why was Agostino written to be such a strange character with an enigmatic nature? If he was written a little more normally would his character have the same impact?

Week 4 – The Shrouded Women

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I cried. The story, narration, imagery, everything about this book was so sad and touching that I couldn’t help but shed some tears as I read it. Perhaps the reason I felt so strongly about it is because one of my best friends passed away last September and I couldn’t help but think of her from time to time as I read. Also, I think reading it while listening to some sad slow songs wasn’t the best idea either (but if you want to have a more emotional experience, I definitely recommend it).

Moving on, one of the main aspects of the book that stood out to me the most was the detailed imagery. Compared to the last two readings I felt like I could clearly visualize everything that was being depicted, which helped me connect with the story a lot more. I felt like I was there and all the things that were being seen and felt, were being experienced by me. One of the descriptions that stood out to me the most and painted a very clear imagery was “She takes a step. She crosses the double ring of mist surrounding it, and enters shoulder high into the fireflies, as in a floating golden dust”. (pg.183). I don’t quite know what it was about those two sentences but I felt as though I released a breath I didn’t know I had been holding in. The mist added a level ambiguity which was interesting to see in a novel where the reader essentially already knew the stories “outcome”.

Touching a bit more on that ambiguity surrounding the mist, it could also be seen as a symbol for the transience aspects of a person’s life. Like how moments in a person’s life are fleeting and ever changing, much like the mist that comes and goes based on the changing events in the narrator’s life. Furthermore, I also felt like it represented the narrator’s love life quite well. The different characters in the narrator’s life, evolved and changed to represent different moments in her life, and each character that she loved became an embodiment for a different “chapter” in her life.

Overall, I quite enjoyed this story even though it was an emotional rollercoaster and I truly enjoyed the use of mist as a symbol (as you can see from how much I talked about it).

*also I know my title is boring but I’m too uncreative to come up with something interesting*

Question to think about: Like I mentioned with mist being a recurring symbol throughout the story, I’m curious why Bombal used it to reference her life? Did the mist perhaps represent something much deeper…like death?