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BTT: Inspiration

btt2.jpgSince “Inspiration” is (or should be) the theme this week … what is your reading inspired by?

Well, this is hard to say. I’ve always been inspired to read, really. I have loved it since I could understand it and even before that I loved being read to. These days, my reading is inspired by what I’m looking for at the time.  Sometimes, I’ll want to be absorbed in an epic, huge story with fantastic characters and an intricate plot.  This is often why I read fantasy, because sometimes I need that escape.  I think, however, that my reading is inspired by the fantastic, top-of-the-line books that exist, but you never know which one is going to be it for you.

Let me trot out my favorite example here.  A year and a half ago, I was taking a literature class that, in all honesty, I sincerely disliked.  Modernism and I do not get along, particularly modernism of the Irish variety.  Perhaps it is brilliant, but I simply do not like it.  I slogged through the reading for the class, perplexed why everyone was enjoying the books that I was not.  I arrived at the next book on my list, The Remains of the Day by Kazuo Ishiguro.  I didn’t expect anything from it, in fact thinking it would be a chore like the rest, if a short chore.  Imagine my surprise and delight that I completely adored it.  It immediately shot to my favorite book of the year.  I can truly say it was inspirational because ever since then, I’ve been searching for that effect, that broken heart, hopeful, simply blown away feeling.  I’m not sure why that book did it for me – I’m not sure I want to read it again in case it’s ruined.  But I loved it and I’m inspired to search, to see what else is out there, to keep on reading in search of these diamonds amidst a sea of lesser precious jewels.  There are many good books, but there are only a few that truly inspire me to keep on reading.  I always enjoy the search because I love to read, but I do think it’s those stunning books that make all the difference.

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12 comments to BTT: Inspiration

  • You’ve made a valid point: the hunt for the book that does it all and has you sighing as you close the cover on the final page–that’s inspiring! Happy BTT.

  • I get on reading kicks and pursue a theme for a while, but I’m very mood driven. I think I’m one of the few people who didn’t really like Remains of the Day (which I read years ago and before the movie came out). I wonder if I should pick it up again.

  • It’s so fulfilling when a book surprises you and turns out to be just what you needed at that point!

  • I agree. I’m inspired when I read a really awesome book to continue reading in search of another gem. Honestly, for all the books I read, the gems are few and far between, but they’re totally worth it. :-)

  • Finding those kind of books is a challenge, but it is a fun challenge. I finished listening to Life of Pi a while back, and it is one of those books that blew me away.

  • Mog

    ‘Remains of the day’, you have inspired me to try it. I have seen the movie, which I loved so I will give the book a chance.

  • Aren’t those surprises the most exciting? Not expecting to like or care for a particular book and then upon reading it discovering it’s really something special. I love that feeling.

  • Those diamonds are hard to find aren’t they …sometimes.

  • A good book will helps, but there is my craving and mood. Sometimes I can be on a roll for an author or a subject. Just depends.

    Reading choices are always like double-edged sword. I want to be part of others’ reading context but my whim sometimes just won’t allow it.

    In short, what inspires me is my own volition and whim.

  • I can’t remember a time that I didn’t love to read either.

  • I love the hunt for a great read!!

  • I have not managed to find the book but I HAVE seen the movie. Twice.

    I get the feelign that there is a lot more nuances in the book than was contained in the movie. But isn’t that always the case.