Sunday, September 30, 2007

Pride and Sense

This weekend I saw the new film, "The Jane Austen Book Club."

I had never seen a preview, or read a review. I basically was trying to kill time before a show. I went in, blind with no expectations and was blown away an unassuming cast of "b-list" celebrities - which included Jimmy Smits. (Yeah, I know right?) While the film had its problems (all books-to-movies do), it was the simple story being told that resonated with me - and caught me off guard, frankly.



The story, in short, is that of the effect Jane Austen on the lives of a group of people. And that reminded me of the power words have. It's not like I totally forgot words had power, but I was reminded how long it's been since I've been really moved by literature. (My last motivating read was, Vagabonding, by Rolf Potts). So, yes. I've read some cool things lately, but it's been a while since a book has moved me emotionally and physically (to actually DO something) the way Austen moves the women and men in this film.

So, I bought her books. All of them. I bought a collection of all her published books and essays, and I started reading from the beginning. This is not a declaration that I will get through all 7 books, but I'm going to give it a go.

Lord knows, I'm not so naive to think that my reading Jane Austen will serve as any sort of catalyst in my own life. But for the first time in a while, I'm not just excited about reading, but about what happens after you read.

3 comments:

Gwen said...

um, the BBC miniseries of pride and prejudice is the best effing thing ever. I love it so much. I will watch it in installments with you so that you can experience the joy and sorrow and colin firthquake hotness.

Gwen said...

the BBC miniseries of pride and prejudice is the best thing ever. We are going to watch all six hours of it together, in installments if you like.

Natasha said...

Oh, I've see it. I've see it a billion times. Firth is my baby daddy.