Read the Classics, we are told.
I have started reading two books whose themes are such that I believe, when read in tandem, enrich the experiences of them both. These two books are Paradise Lost by John Milton and Frankenstein or Modern Prometheus by Mary Shelley.
Paradise Lost is Milton's epic telling of the fall of Mankind. Satan and his retinue of outcast angels, defeated and banished to the depths of Hell, plots to seduce God's ultimate creation (Adam and Eve) into the ultimate sin. I had attempted to read Paradise Lost one time approximately two years ago but I don't think I loved it enough or understood it enough to finish it. But this time around, I am approaching it more carefully and strategically. I am reading alongside an audiobook/narration, which adds a whole lot of color and drama to Milton's beautiful word smithery. I finished Book 1 today and hope to continue onwards.
Frankenstein as a story is woven into the fabric of modern society. It's one of those stories that the pop culture around it and its remixes, often colors more of the ordinary people's perception than the actual source material, much like the Dracula. I knew the rough story of Frankenstein or at least the premise of the story. Frankenstein works on his creation until he breathes life into it but having done so, he abandons the monstor in sheer horror of the abomination. That was about the extent of what I knew about the original story before I started reading the book. The book is incredible and the author, Mary Shelley, writes in such vivid and meandering descriptions. Her command over her language to drive the narrative forward is remarkable. I am at the point where Frankenstein is recovering after stopping his tireless work in creating the monstor. Can't wait to continue onwards.
Reading these book makes me realize why these books are considered classics and why we are often told- Read the Classics!