Recap!
Greetings, bibliophiles! Another fantastic evening was spent at FL's abode, discussing Virginia Woolf's "To the Lighthouse." In a Book Club first, no one finished the book. "I give it a 10 for its Nyquil-like properties," said Nancy, describing how she fell asleep twice during the first 20 pages. Similar experiences were reported around the room. Excluding the 10, the average rating was a 4, and this even includes FL's outlying score of 8.5. Inclusive of its nap-inducing nature, we agreed that it was not a novel in the traditional sense and that it was likely highly revolutionary at its first publication. Also as a favorite of professors, it will continue to be published long into the future. Positive comments about the book noted the stream of consciousness movement from mind to mind as well as the social contrasts. However, no one knows what it was about or what happened. I guess if we had finished the book, that might be less of an issue.
Happily, while we couldn't finish the book, we did finish most of the food, which would indicate that either we were hungrier than usual, the food was better than usual, less food was ordered, or any combination thereof. Hilary noted that the wine was especially yummy while I was a huge fan of the cheese. Matt avoided partaking of the meat, citing some type of New Year's resolution. The highlight of dinner was the dessert, three types of cakes which were fantastic!
In a reference to prior book club readings, Hilary is glad she read "American Tragedy" because, really, Clyde is just like Scott Peterson and if she hadn't read the book, she wouldn't make that connection. She also recommends the "E! True Hollywood Story" on Heidi Fleiss, if you get the chance.
Matt and Hilary charmingly recited Robert Frost's "Fire and Ice" (very impressive, kids) and Matt revealed that he is a chess Life Master (waaaaay impressive there Matt). Nacho has resolved to lift weights three times a week (go Nacho!), so be sure to stay on his good side--he's been workin' out.
On movies, the group agreed that "Lost in Translation" is not mocking the Japanese, and in fact isn't even about Japan or the Japanese. It is about two Americans coming together in an alienating society. "It could be a block of ice in the ocean," said Scott. Speaking of Scott, check out the website to view the now timeless photo of him as Book Club mascot. Also on movies, please cast your vote for worst/least favorite Bond girl. The early leader is Denise Richards (of Starship Troopers fame) for her turn as Christmas Jones. Also, were you aware that each of the Ian Fleming Bond books is exactly 162 pages? They might be good selections for our group . . .
That said, I will host the next meeting on Monday, 23Feb04, at a location TBA (either my house or FL's). For the reading, this month we will select the book by its cover--Book #1 is paperback and costs approximately $15. It is a funny, fast read and the discussion could be terrific or terrible. Book #2 is hardback and approximately $15. It is a pretty intense read, but a very good book and should produce an excellent discussion. Both books are of approximately equal length. This is up for vote because I know people have strong views about hardback books! Please respond by Thursday at noon with your book preference.
That's all for now! Watch for the book selection on Thursday afternoon.
Take care,
FS