“Troubled as the future was, it was the unknown future, and in its obscurity there was ignorant hope.”
I have been thinking about A Tale of Two Cities since I finished it this past Sunday. I had Great Expectations (you see what I did there...) for this novel because, when I announced I was reading it, the outpouring of affection for this story was overwhelming. Let me tell you, A Tale of Two Cities did not disappoint.
This is a novel about the French Revolution and how the English and French characters in the story are all connected during this violent and volatile period. The majority of the story, I thought, moved rather slowly. Dickens takes his time setting everything up , and I would often say out loud while reading, “Chuck, where are you taking me?” And then I hit a certain point in the book and everything snaps into place and Chuck *clap* took *clap* me *clap* there! The sheer genius and precision in which my boy Chuck sets up this story is astounding. My mouth fell open. And yes, knitting plays a pivotal role in this narrative (all my knitters... this one is a must read).
What is a pleasant surprise are the beautiful relationships/friendships that Dickens creates. The power of friendship, loyalty and obligation are significant and these themes build to a stunning, but heartbreaking, plot twist at the end. It was so intense, that I had to put the book down and walk away to get myself together before finishing the last 20 pages. I’m not a huge crier, but I was on the verge of tears.
Dickens created a masterpiece with A Tale of Two Cities. There is so much symbolism and detail, that just one reading of this story is not enough. When I finished, I immediately wanted to go back and reread in order to pick out the subtle clues I missed. This book takes a little bit of work and more focus to read, but if you persevere and have some patience, you will be greatly rewarded.
Rating: 5/5
What is your favorite novel by Charles Dickens?
***
A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens: ISBN 978-0-141-19690-9
***
Also pictured here:
Vertical Stripes Sweater I knitted for myself, designed by Petite Knit
We Are Knitters massive knitting needles
Drinking: Copper Cow Coffee rose flavored coffee
***
Post a Comment