This section ended up being really easy for me (I thought we had to read parts 1 AND 2 but it was just 1, which was totally manageable.)
I found a lot to love as I passed through this section. First, to my immense relief, there weren't really that many "war" sequences. Instead there is a lot about Napoleon, Alexander, and other VIPs but it is mostly talking rather than any battle. Rostov still has a sequence of bravery for which he is commended but even he is unsure why he received that to my amusement.
Back at the home front, Natasha is very ill after her broken engagement but also starts to get on the mind, seeking release in religion. As a shorter sequence, I find that I don't really have much to say. Except...
I have found my most favorite part of the book so far in this following quote:
Quote: "when she did not [understand], the sweeter it was for her to think that the wish to understand everything was pride, that it was impossible to understand everything, that she had only to believe and give herself to God, who in those moments--she felt--was guiding her soul." (659, Pevear and Volokhonsky)
The she is Natasha and I feel like it kind of captures my personality. I really want to know/understand everything and sometimes with the resources available through the internet, I feel like that is possible. Yet it is only an illusion. I was very humbled by this thought over the past few days and anticipate spending a lot of time reflecting before I start the next section.
What did everybody think of this section? Go me, staying on track :)
Oh you girl! I really don't think I could read this one.
ReplyDeleteI bet you could! We're reading this over the course of an entire year and that's the only way I'm managing (that and doing it with other people!)
DeleteI can see how this would be manageable if you thought you had to read twice as much! The length of this section was alright, you are right. And not too boring. I wonder how I will fare in August - that section seems long!
ReplyDeleteI was so surprised by the shortness-the next section is long! I should probably start it this weekend but I anticipate blasting through it all on the 31st.
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