Rediscover an Old Classic

June 22, 2010

A recent visit from a relative reminds me that we often take for granted the experience of others. In this case, the experience is The Scarlet Letter by Nathaniel Hawthorne. Were you aware that not all Americans have read America’s first novel to be associated solely with the USA and the first to receive international attention? It’s true. So please consider this classic when you think about filling in the potential blanks in your reading experience.

The Scarlet Letter explores universal themes, building on the powerful bond between a mother and her child. The mystery draws readers into the intrigue of the romantic entanglements, and the mystical central episode cries out for conversation and discussion to resolve the conflicting clues. Hawthorne’s musical writing style and poetic descriptions go a long way to overcome some readers’ unfamiliarity with mid-nineteenth century prose style.

Check it out!