Friday, October 24, 2008

Splash du Jour: Friday

As a reader I've always been drawn to the “Big Question” book. Philosophical, difficult, set in their particular time -- the kind of book that isn't afraid to ask tough questions. In the same way I'm put off by books that pretend to answer the questions they raise. There can't be answers -- not sincere or meaningful answers -- to the questions raised in a great book.
For me a novel doesn't try to solve riddles, but instead simply lays them out, exposes, or states those riddles in new, arresting, and entirely crucial ways. In raising those questions -- by positioning your characters, building your setting and your drama -- you approach the heart of what it is to be human. Cliche, I know, but what other reason could there be?

-- Dennis Bock –

Have a great Friday!

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