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Light in August
cannot be summarized in a sentence or two. Taking place in Faulkner's Yoknapatawpha County, there are three inter-connected stories that delve into topics such as morals, alienation and Christianity as well as the racial tensions that I've come to expect in Southern literature of this time period.I wanted to read this book in particular, because I heard somewhere that it was the most accessible of all of his novels. I don't remember where. But if you're looking for a Faulkner novel that you don't have to be afraid of, this would fit the bill. It's not an easy read, but it's not nearly as confusing as, for example, The Sound and the Fury.
As I was reading, I did feel there was a lot of religious imagery surrounding one main character in particular, Joe Christmas. In one scene, there were very strong crucifixion overtones. I was happy to discover via my personal literature tutor, Wikipedia, that I was not imagining things. The expansion on this thought, with Lena seen as a Mary-figure and Byron as a Joseph-figure, was an eye-opener. I would have never thought of that on my own. This was a beautiful, disturbing book that has added much fuel to my new fixation with Faulkner.
This finishes my 2008 TBR Challenge!
7 comments:
wow there is a faulkner novel that is accessible? LOL Who knew. Thanks for pointing this out.
Serena ~ Leave it to me to provide deep analysis like, "Cool! I could understand this one!" :-)
Lezlie
Light in August is my absolute favorite of Faulkner's novels. I read it twice in grad school and had two delightful professors teach it. This makes me want to read the novel again.
Whew! I haven't tried a Faulkner. I'm afraid I'm not worthy :) And congratulations on finishing the TBR Challenge.
Plus, a blessed merry Christmas to you and your family! Do enjoy the holidays with your rocking silver boots :)
Literate Housewife ~ Books like this make me want to go to school and truly study literature. Maybe someday!
Lightheaded ~ LOL! Thank you, and Merry Christmas to you, too! (And you *are* worthy!! Just keep Wikipedia close at hand.)
Lezlie
Congrats on finishing the challenge! And by the way, you're now my resident expert on all things Faulkner. :)
Michele ~ Thanks! I'll just keep supplying those Wikipedia links. :-)
Lezlie
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