A couple of years ago I read Sir Gawain and the Green Knight as part of a year long reading of medieval literature program offered by The London Review of Books. I didn’t expect to like it but I did. I also appreciated St. Bede’s Life of Cuthbert among other books.
It was interesting. First time I have read him. Seems like the type of book that may require a bit of digesting before I know my long term thoughts. But it kept me engaged.
And I can’t even talk to you about it because I don’t really remember that book. That was the first one I read by him and then I went on to read a bunch of others. My strongest impression is, “wow, this guy isn’t afraid to tell the absolute truth about our deepest impulses, whether good or bad!”
Matthew, I am sending prayers for your father and your family. I understand only too well that it is hard to focus when a parent is ill. All the best to all.. And thank you for this lovely Commonplace post.
The badge is perfect for you, Matthew! You set such a wonderful example of literary citizenship and generosity. I'm looking forward to listening to the interview. How are you liking Magic Hour? I saw Kristin Hannah interviewed last week and learned she drafts longhand; I know there are enough writers out there that do this, but it always amazes me. Sending healing thoughts for your dad's recovery.❤️
Never was the badge more appropriately awarded!
I much appreciate the shout out Matthew, and also the links to other Substacks I haven't heard of yet. Thank you!
I love the badge! And thank you for the kind mention, Matthew
Thank you sir 🫡
I appreciate you. Many prayers for your father. 🙏
I just discovered your newsletter thanks to Matthew sharing your post, I can't wait to read all your Dog Lessons:)🐾
Ahhh the blessings of our online friends. Thank you Renee 🙏
Prayers going up in Montana!
Thanks for sharing all the interesting things you've read, I wouldn't have discovered the Laceless Shoes post otherwise and have now subscribed.
A couple of years ago I read Sir Gawain and the Green Knight as part of a year long reading of medieval literature program offered by The London Review of Books. I didn’t expect to like it but I did. I also appreciated St. Bede’s Life of Cuthbert among other books.
Thank you for including my piece amongst so many wonderful works! I’m humbled by the mention and the company.
How did you like The Unbearable Lightness of Being, Matthew? I was a huge fan of Kundera back in my 20s and 30s.
It was interesting. First time I have read him. Seems like the type of book that may require a bit of digesting before I know my long term thoughts. But it kept me engaged.
And I can’t even talk to you about it because I don’t really remember that book. That was the first one I read by him and then I went on to read a bunch of others. My strongest impression is, “wow, this guy isn’t afraid to tell the absolute truth about our deepest impulses, whether good or bad!”
Thank you for sharing your recommended essays; I always find new voices of interest. Sending good thoughts your way for your father's recovery 🙏
Matthew, I am sending prayers for your father and your family. I understand only too well that it is hard to focus when a parent is ill. All the best to all.. And thank you for this lovely Commonplace post.
"Essential reading" as a description of my "On the Sanctity of Touch" essay is...well, thank you, Matthew.
The badge is well-earned. My prayers are with you, Matthew.
The badge is perfect for you, Matthew! You set such a wonderful example of literary citizenship and generosity. I'm looking forward to listening to the interview. How are you liking Magic Hour? I saw Kristin Hannah interviewed last week and learned she drafts longhand; I know there are enough writers out there that do this, but it always amazes me. Sending healing thoughts for your dad's recovery.❤️
I enjoyed Magic Hour. Both of her books that I have read were great. I have several others in the queue as well.
Praying xx
Prayers for your father.