The Classic Conundrum

Why pick up classics? Maybe you want to dive into captivating stories while also becoming well-read. You might even want to brag about it later! Or maybe by exploring popular books from different eras, you want to experience history in a fun, engaging way. Whether you seek to diversify your reading or simply appreciate timeless literature, this guide will assist you in navigating the world of classics. Enjoy!

Start simple

I completely understand the intimidation that can come with reading classics for the first time. The dense language and complex themes can be overwhelming, but don't let that discourage you! One of the best ways to start is by exploring simple and easily accessible classics, even those that are categorized as children's literature.

Don’t let the label "children's literature" make you think that these books are only for kids. Trust me, they can be just as enjoyable and rewarding for adults too! In fact, books like "The Secret Garden", "Little Women", and "The Little Princess" are excellent examples of children's classics that can provide an enjoyable reading experience while gradually familiarizing you with the language and style of classic literature, as well as the societal norms and cultural nuances of the period they are set in.

These books are perfect for easing into the world of classic literature, and they will make your transition to more complex works smoother. So, don't be afraid to give them a try! You might be surprised at how much you enjoy them.

Make use of free resources

When I first started reading classic literature, I found it quite challenging at times. There were so many intricate details and complex themes that sometimes things just went over my head. But I didn't let that stop me! I turned to websites such as ‘Sparknotes’ and ‘Litcharts’. These platforms offer character analysis, summaries, and chapter-wise analysis that have been incredibly helpful.

And in case I had a specific question, I'd simply type it into my search bar. More often than not, someone else had already asked the same question, and I could find answers readily available. It's amazing how much knowledge is out there, just waiting to be discovered.

Pair it with a movie or TV series

As a book lover, I’ve found that pairing classic literature with its most faithful adaptation can truly enhance the reading experience. There’s something magical about seeing the characters come to life on screen, especially when the adaptation captures the essence of the original work

By watching the adaptation, you can visualize the story and its characters more vividly. Whether you choose to watch before, alongside, or after reading the book is entirely up to you. So go ahead—dive into the adaptation, imagine the scenes with the cast of characters, and let the story unfold in all its cinematic glory!

Don’t judge a book by its first chapter

After years of reading, I’ve learned not to rush when judging a book. It’s easy to form an opinion based on the first few chapters, but classic books—especially those penned in the 19th century—often demand patience. These literary gems come with long-winded paragraphs and meticulous descriptions of everyday details. Why? Well, amongst other factors, back then, novels were one of the few forms of entertainment and escapism, and lengthy and in-depth narratives met readers demands.

So, brace yourself for the journey ahead. Yes, it requires persistence, but trust me, it’s worth it. Don’t abandon the book at the first pages; the real story hasn’t even unfurled yet! Think of those initial pages as the author laying the groundwork—the foundation upon which the entire tale rests ;)

Be excited about reading

One thing I do is get myself excited for my next classic novel. Set the stage: find a cozy nook in a café or a quiet corner in the park. Alternatively, stay indoors, light a candle, and brew a cup of fragrant tea. Romanticize the experience—imagine yourself as an academic, delving into the depths of knowledge. As you read, annotate the margins, capturing your thoughts and insights. Experience reading classics to the fullest, read them because you want to, rather than to merely check books off your TBR list.

Re-read

At first, I considered the advice to read slowly, pondering on every word. However, I recognize that many of us—including myself—struggle with patience in our eagerness to uncover the story’s secrets, racing toward the final pages. That’s why I propose revisiting each book if possible. The second time around, you’ll linger over paragraphs, appreciating the subtle wit that eluded you initially. You might even discover new layers of meaning.

Take ‘Jane Eyre,’ for instance. Initially, I found it merely ‘Okay-ish.’ But upon a second reading, I fell in love. I even realized I’d missed two entire pages during my annual revisit (yes, I adore it enough to read it yearly). So, if you’ve dismissed a classic before, consider giving it another chance. Who knows? It might become your newfound favorite.

Don’t read …

I understand that this might seem contradictory to my previous stance, but let me explain. If none of the tips I’ve shared help you engage with a story, it’s perfectly fine to leave it behind. Yes, you heard me right—don’t force yourself to continue. My younger self would have been horrified by these words, as I used to believe it was my duty to finish every book I started. However, reading should never be a chore; it’s a source of pleasure. So, if a book fails to interest you, no matter how hard you try, put it down and pick up another one. There’s no need to feel guilty—after all, not all books are meant to appeal to everyone.

I hope you find this article helpful. Please let me know of any other tips you have used personally to help with reading classics. Happy reading!