As an English student, I feel well read enough to say that some readings I’ve been forced to do for class have been worse than others. I’m sorry, Charles Dickens, but Hard Times was a bore and I couldn’t even get past the first fifty pages.
Moving away from the books that feel never-ending, I’ve been exposed to some real stars in the literature world throughout my course. Here’s my top five.
Coming in at number five is Paradise Lost by John Milton. Whilst this extended poem takes some dedication to get through, it is well worth the deep dive. I had a blast writing about it for an essay, as its takes on religion and the role of Lucifer got me giddy.
Fourth place goes to Northanger Abbey, Jane Austen’s take on the gothic novel. The slow build, the creeping dread, the mood Austen creates – all of it is enthralling. If you’re a fan of Austen and somehow haven’t read this yet, do yourself a favour and pick up a copy.
The bronze goes to The Good Soldier by Ford Madox Ford. This witty, winding narrative and unconventional storytelling may be confusing at first, but it is executed perfectly. It’s funny, it’s infuriating, it’s one of a kind. I never would have picked it up if it wasn’t for a class, but I’m glad I did.
Second place is a tie. A Room of One’s Own by Virginia Woolf, an essay on women and writing. This is an inspiration for people like me and my personal favourite of Woolf’s work. Then Mrs Dalloway – what a novel. Lesbianism, feminism, drama – what more could a girl ask for?
Number one is a surprise to anyone who knew me in high school. Romeo and Juliet made me think I hated Shakespeare, but Hamlet blew me away. I had such a good time reading this play that I ended up watching multiple variations online for fun. I love when characters actually face the consequences of their own actions and with pretty much all of them dying (sorry, spoilers), I was immensely satisfied.
Be brave and pick up a book you never would have thought to read, it might become you’re new favourite!
Featured Image Credit : Rae Archibald
Arts Editor - get in touch via arts@brignews.com
Journalism and English student.
Braw Magazine co-editor for Stirling University’s Brig and a third year English and Journalism student.
