To cause reaction, how delightful.
@ nwatts: fair enough, and I've no issue with people seeking literary cohesion, or in finding a source of common awareness through which communication and understanding can be achieved. But don't be quite so innocent. If you want to understand people, don't read what they read, you'll better understand yourself, but not them; talk to them, find out why they're reading it. There's your understanding.
@ Markazzo: haha, this is conversation, yes? Sure, that was facetious, I realise this. Moving on though, I've no issue with the books themselves, after doing this, I'll even work out how many I've read for you. My contribution was instead directed towards the rationale many people have for reading these books. Apologies if this is contrary to your intention. And just quickly, I should say that I'm not furrowing my brow here, I'm quite enjoying it, but more importantly, people should be encouraged to form and share opinions, if there's no disagreement, no alternative opinions, why bother?
@ Walrusbear: how widespread the trend? Go to Angus and Robertsons one day, should answer your question. I've made no comment, and have no inclination to comment, on the posters in this forum, I think discussion of books is a worthwhile activity and should be encouraged, as is the case here. Nor have I said that the enjoyment of a book is a bad thing, in fact, I would never say that. as it is fundamentally a ridiculous assertation. As for the lit snobbery I say exists, not sure where I say this, but I'll pretend as if I did, again, I have no issue with what someone chooses to read, I have no issues with anyone enjoying any form of written communication, and I would certainly not pretend to suggest I know what the other posters have read based off what has been written here.
Disregarding marketing and sales purposes, I have little real issue with these lists, only what they represent. Instead, all I wish for people to do, is become more aware of what they are reading, of why they are reading.
Now then, as for the lists? From Time, I've 'only' (if you've been paying attention, you'll note the irony) read 21 of them, how exciting for me. Moving right along, 37 from 100 Greatest, and finally from A&R, 39. In my opinion, all are worth reading, with the right reason.
