Quote:
Originally Posted by Fiona
I've also been defeated by Ulysses. I'm thinking of trying again in the new year, but this time I'll be having a few drinks before I start...  |
Two suggestions:
1) Read Homer's Odyssey first. Joyce refers to the Odyssey and utilizes its structure. See MR poster Strether's commentary on the new version of Ulysses he uploaded
here.
2) Try reading it
aloud. Joyce's primary sense was hearing, and to a great extent he was attempting to reproduce in his writing what he
heard in his legendary walks through Dublin. Reading it aloud might give you a better feel for the language.
There's a story about him in which Joyce meets an old friend while out walking. Ulysses had recently been published, and Joyce wished to know what his friend thought. The friend replied that he'd only read it five time, and would have to read it at least five more times to have a real opinion. "But man", exclaimed Joyce, "Didn't you at least think it was
funny?
______
Dennis