Quote:
Originally Posted by GA Russell
Finally, I am surprised that so many are taking the view that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so no one can say whether a book is poor or good writing. I think that's silly. Of course there will always be differences of opinion regarding any particular book. Some will love titles that others will dislike.
But if you think that there is no such thing as poor writing, then I think that Hazlitt is talking to you.
|
I don't think many (if any) have said that. There certainly different quality of writing out there.
What people are saying is people shoudn't go around bashing people for their reading tastes.
Maybe it is garbage in, garbage out. But I have a Ph D, and work in academia so I'm challenging myself intellectually day in, day out with work. I don't often have the energy to read challenging literature with my leisure reading--which is usually just reading for 30 minutes or so before sleeping.
So when someone says whatever fantasy book I'm reading is garbage and I'm rotting my brain, you'll have to forgive me if my only response is a resounding "f*** you!" as I'm probably taxing and expanding my intellect more than the snobbish prick saying that 99% of the time given my profession.
Again, read what you like. Discuss the merits of a book. No need for people to bash others for their reading interests.
I also don't like all the negativity toward TV, movies etc. here. I realize this is a cite for avid readers/bookworms. But again, no need to be snobbish. A great movie or show can be just as rewarding as a great book. They key is story telling (be it fiction or non-fiction), and books, TV shows, movies, etc. all mediums for story tellers to spin their tales.