This week, I decided to read not just for enjoyment, but for literary purpose. Most of you are probably familiar with the Harry Potter series, and may have likely read the books. The first time I read Harry Potter I remember how quickly I finished the book, as it was just so interesting. I sped through the entire series, and watched all of the movies.
It has been over a year since I last read a Harry Potter book, so I decided to do something somewhat unusual for me. I decided to re-read the book. I know, I know, seems pointless, doesn't it? But personally, I wanted to do this for two reasons. One, I really wanted to read for detail. Like I said before, the first time I read the books, I finished them as fast as I could. I was so excited about the constantly twisting plot, and the changing turn of events, that I didn't bother to take a minute and fully analyze what was going on in the story. This time around, I would like to take a moment and really read the story carefully, and be on the lookout for specific instances of symbolism, abstract correlations, and a variety of literary concepts. The second reason, is because I want to gain a new perspective on the books. It has been over a year since I last read the books, so a lot of time has passed. Perhaps I will have a new perspective on the unfurling events within the story, and find meaning in what was previously meaningless. Basically, I want to see if by reading the book a second time I will be able to enhance my opinion, as well as my knowledge of these books.
Up til now, the Harry Potter series of books have been by far my favorite books of all time. I still remember the excitement I felt as I read each book for the first time in my younger days. What might be interesting to note, is that the first time that I read the series, I did not read the books in order. I believe that I started with the fourth book, and jumped around from book to book. This time around, I will be reading the series in order, starting from the Sorcerers/Philosophers Stone, and ending with the Deathly Hallows. I will be sure to keep you guys updated as I complete the process.
This is a great idea! I find that as I re-read books or re-watch movies I loved as a child, I pick up on allusions and literary techniques that I never used to notice. It helps me to respect the writer/filmmaker even more! I hope you enjoy rereading Harry Potter.
ReplyDeleteGreat idea Rujul! Re-reading the books can be helpful to understanding the story even further and noticing elements used throughout the book that you had'nt noticed while reading it the first time around. Especially since the author J.K Rowling writes in such a way that you can continue wanting to read the book even after you've finished, I think it'll be enjoyable as well as a learning opportunity for you to re-read the series. Keep up the updates!
ReplyDelete