One of the reasons why I enjoy revisiting classical literary works on a regular basis is because of how they sound. There are very few poets in any language, for example, who can approximate Shakespeare's mastery of both verse and tone, or Dante Alighieri's lyricism, invention, and depth (even in translation). Magical realism drives my wife nuts, but I absolutely adore the sustained artistry and layers of meaning that Gabriel Garcia Marquez weaves into his kilometric sentences. Even when I don't quite get what Gabo means, the sheer beauty of how it all sounds when read aloud makes me think that I will be rewarded for my patience.Here's a wholly unobjective, but fairly enjoyable list of The 100 Most Beautiful Words in English. Many thanks to JessicaRulesthe Universe.com for the link!
4 comments:
That's why I make Ryan memorize poetry for the sheer beauty of meter and rhyme. Even if he doesn't understand the meaning there is an enjoyment to poetics that goes beyond meaning.
hey one of my favorite words is on the list-gossamer
I love that list. I shall have to try and incorporate the words in my everyday speech - LOL. Shakespeare was such a genius with his words - to this day I still love reading his works. One day I would love to see the first folios which has finally been returned to Durham University. It would be so amazing to see such an important piece of literature!
Magical realism and Gabriel Garcia Marquez! I wish we discussed one of his works in lit class. I miss attending your lit classes, Mr. Borra!
Oh, and my favorite Gabriel Garcia Marquez line is the first one on "Love in the Time of Cholera" -
"It was inevitable: the scent of bitter almonds always reminded him of the fate of unrequited love." A little emo, but beautiful nonetheless! :)
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