Crystal’s Comments (group member since Jan 04, 2013)

Crystal’s comments from the Classics Without All the Class group.

I started this book a few years ago and got half way through before putting it down. I can't remember why I stopped, but I look forward to finishing it this time. I really enjoy Margaret Atwood.

Rob wrote: "As for his arrogance in the beginning, I have to think that it is not unexpected, as arrogance often accompanies youth, only to be humbled by life's let-downs. In that way, Siddartha's journey rese..."

That is very true. I've never considered that.

The first time I read this, as a teenager about to go into college, it spoke to me on so many different levels. During that time, it wasn't just about finding enlightenment but really about finding myself and the right path for me.

Even though Siddhartha strives to find truth, I think that he also finds himself in the process. That is what I have always carried with me every time I read this book.

Karen wrote: "I was glad Siddhartha had that moment of doubt and icy despair in the last pages of Part 1. He seemed a bit too robotic up until that point. I was definitely surprised that Govinda gave himself o..."

I think that, ultimately, Govinda is a follower. He attached himself to Siddhartha because he was the "holiest," but then he met the Buddha and saw someone even more spiritually advanced.

The difference between Govinda and Siddhartha is that Govinda thought he could follow someone else's path to enlightenment, and Siddhartha believed he had to find his own. Govinda wasn't prepared to follow him into the unknown. He wanted a path that was tried and true.

Sam wrote: "I found the second part easier to digest than the first. I think I was too consumed with the religious language to fully take it all in. I am very happy I carried on as the second part is what made..."

I enjoy the second part much more than the first, as well. I find him arrogant and prideful in the beginning, but as he gets older he starts to break and humble himself.

Colleen wrote: "I'm not sure yet. Is it over?"

Is what over?

Personally, I believe a lot of people today try to find personal fulfillment in material things, much like Siddhartha tries to do when he becomes a merchant. However, like him, it fails to satisfy.

Some say that Hess was answering critics views that Buddhism isn't a practical religion. What do you think?

One of my favorite parts of this book is when Siddhartha has been living a life of pleasure, and the narrator describes how having everything had only made him duller and emptier.

That is a relevant comment for the age we live in.

Share your reviews and ratings (if you use that system) of Siddhartha here.

Even if you are not Buddhist or religious, we are all on a journey.

What in Siddhartha spoke to you about your own spiritual odyssey?

What do you think Hermann Hesse was saying about Buddhism as a means to enlightenment? Was he saying anything at all?

What is the significance of Siddhartha's relationship with Govinda? How does it serve the story?

This book is all about one man's search for spiritual enlightenment.

Please discuss the different attempts he makes to reach nirvana, as well as their success or unsuccess.

Share your opinion on how his quest relates to life today. Is it true to life or far-fetched?

In reading Siddhartha, it's important to have a general understanding of Buddhism. If you have any questions about the religion, especially in relation to the text, please ask them here.

I am neither Buddhist nor an expert on Buddhism; therefore, it would be helpful if those more knowledgeable about the subject would answer any questions posted.

Please discuss anything having to do with part two here. This is from the chapter named "Kamala" to the end.

If you haven't read part two yet, please post your discussion questions and comments in the thread for part one.

In this thread, please discuss and ask questions about anything that happens in part one. This is from the chapter called "The Son of the Brahman" to the chapter named "Awakening."

Please DO NOT discuss anything from Part Two in this thread. There is a separate thread for that.

Nick wrote: "I have a youtube channel where I do in-depth book reviews: http://www.youtube.com/user/CloudCuck...

Here's a sample of what I have: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fjvAR..."

I really enjoy your videos.

Shanea wrote: "I did the last one as well, but I haven't decided if I'm attempting again. Whenever I tell myself I'm going to sit and read x books in x days it never works out."

That's why I make VERY loose goals. haha. I know it's supposed to be about reading, but I find the social aspect the most enjoyable. Talking to people around the world about books is lovely.

Is anyone participating in Bout of Books 11 next week?

If you don't know what that is, it's an international read-a-thon that is a week long. It's not themed, so you can read whatever you want, and every day there are challenges and giveaways by different bloggers around the world.

This is my second one, and I'm really excited for it. I am also hosting a giveaway this time, so I can't wait!

If you want to find out more about it or sign-up, you can check out the Bout of Books blog (not run by me).