The Brothers Karamazov
discussion
Scared to read this!
I first read 'The catcher in the rye' when I was a teenager and I've read it couple of times since and enjoyed it every time. And I know some adults who really enjoys it. I'd even go ahead and say that this book is actually written for adults.but anyway, we're not discussing catcher in the rye, we're talking about The Brothers Karamazov. These two are completely different books. I'd advise you to read the book first. and if you think that it is too much for you then you may wait for some time and then give it another shot? 'The Brothers Karamazov' is not a Nietzsche philosophical treatise or anything, it is a novel after all. But there are complex philosophical question regarding God,justice, good and evil and etc being discussed in "Grand Inquisitor"(the most interesting part of the book if you ask me) so you may find them a little hard to understand. I don't know what kind of books you like to read so I cannot guarantee that you'll like this one. But if you're familiar with Dostoevsky's other works and you like his wit, humor you'll love this book. I'm an avid Dostoevsky fan, I adore almost all of his works that I've read. But this one is by far my favorite. I think this is one of the greatest book ever written. I was 18 when I read it for the first time, I read it again when I was 20. I saw some things more clearly second time. Maybe it had something to do with age and experience or maybe I had a better grasp of English by then, who knows :) I'm planning to read KB again in the near future, but this time in russian. just to know how Dostoevsky 'sounds' in his native language.
Hi Fatin. I was roughly 19, or less, and I am so glad I dived into this young. It got into my blood - sank right in, as books ceased to do at a later age, sadly. Those major works I tackled under twenty are the ones that remain majorly with me. 'Got into my blood' is how I've described it ever since.Anyhow, I don't think this is a difficult book. Profound, yes, but that doesn't mean hard to read. I think it's fairly easy to read, it just has depths...
I was as passionate as possible about it at 19ish - thought I'd found the meaning of life and that. It's my number one book. I read it yet again this year, in my forties, and I can assure you, I don't understand it better for being forty. Or not in the ways that matter.
Hit it, I say.
PS. as often the case with Dostoyevsky, his main characters are twenty-early twenties. Not to mention the schoolkids. And you know, that famous 'Grand Inquisitor' is a 24 year old talking to his 20 year old brother. Dostoyevsky was never ageist, and rightly not.
I read it when I was about 21. I don't think it's complicated. It's rich, profound and it provokes reflecting. I encourage you to read it now. It's not like there is a lot of symbolism or a great deal of prior historical or political knowledge is required. All I would recommend you to do is to be very careful choosing a good version with a superb translation because reading this novel is once in a life time kind of experience.
I was also scared to read it, but trust me, don't miss it! it's a beautiful masterpiece and not complicated at all. It's deep yes, and It'll make you wonder about many things in life and I think you're no too young for that. You're in the age of forming your personal ideas about the world & nothing can help you better than Dostoyevsky's thoughts. I only read it last year, at 22 and I regretted not reading it younger. good luck
I have never heard of anyone being scared of reading a book, let alone a nineteen year old with a self-professed "intelligence higher than the average human". Good grief, it's Dostoevsky not Kafka and even he's not scary! So get hold of yourself and sink your teeth into some of the most brilliant literature around - The Idiot and Crime & Punishment even better.
Well, it would seem my friend had been scaring me needlessly! Deep and profound don't scare me off. I grew up with classics.
Jen, I've read Kafka, enjoyed it thoroughly.
I just wanted to make sure I got the possible best out of this book because it's supposed to be brilliant.
I'll definitely start it within the month, then.
Yes, you're definitely too stupid to read this novel. It has been officially confirmed that only people with significantly higher than average IQs should read the blurb on the back, even then they risk a mental breakdown. This book should only be attempted by the top 0.5% of the wirld's intelligent people. I am confident that you will get there since you've clearly made a good start, but that kind of staggering intellect only really occurs in males in their late 50s. I suggest that for now you read Stephen King.
Dostoevsky uses very straight-forward language (or at least his translators do!), so it is not all that difficult to follow the plot of the novel. One of the charms of this book is that it can be appreciated on many different levels: as a murder mystery/courtroom drama, as a family saga w/ all the psychological baggage that entails, and as a philosophical treatise on the nature of good and evil. No matter how deeply you delve into it, you will get something out of it.
I had to read this when I was a sophomore in college..the book was the whole class.. I think its a good book to listen too..on cd. Its difficult!
I'm reading this book right now and I can tell you it is one of the best books I have ever come across. I would suggest, as it was suggested to me that you read Crime and Punishment first (and I had already read Notes from Underground before C&P), but this book has been phenomenal for me and I would recommend it. I never can figure out what the fear of this book is, there are endnotes and translation notes, and an introduction, etc.
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.I keep wondering if I..."
I read it when I was 21, because literature is made for teaching us about Life. To wait the right time to read a book is odd, I think this is not the really reason you haven't started it yet. Furthermore, if you are so "intelligent" as you write, you can read it in 1 week. It took me two weeks and a half, and I have a normal intellect. Besides, I think it is right that we can appreciate and learning more about an author and his work when we have a good experience about life, but that's the reason why a lot of people read more times the same book.
I was a little disappointed. The book is Dostojevskijs last unfinished book. Partly great literature, but remains "open" at the end.
There's never a "good" or "bad" time in life to read great literature. Your understanding changes with more life experience but that should never stop you from opening yourself up to any work of art. I am A a lot older than you and reading Ulysses for the first timeand only understand about one-tenth of what Joyce is writing but that doesn't diminish the experience. Don't worry and go for it!
While I agree with everyone who says it is not too difficult, I'd suggest reading Crime and Punishment first. However, that's just because I think it is better. Brothers K is a wonderful book, and as for reading it now or when you're older, why not both times? Of course, reading it now might just inspire you for many years to come. Dostoyevsky has a way of doing that. One note of advice. If you haven't read many Russian novels, use this little trick. DO NOT skip-read the many long names. Take the time to read it one, sounding them out, so you come to distinguish them easily. After a short bit of this, you'll begin to read them as easily as shorter, Westernized names.So enjoy!
I read it when I was seventeen, and have only a vague recollection of it now; it's impossible for me to discuss it critically. It didn't speak much to me at the time, compared to something like "Catcher in the Rye," so I believe I should have waited. On the other hand Moby Dick hit home, and I've a stronger recollection of Tolstoy, so getting the most out of any book probably depends on the individual rather than that individual's age. One thing I caution younger readers is that at the same time they don't dismiss classics aimed more at their age group. When you're older you'll have plenty of time to appreciate books aimed at an older audience. But you can't ever go back to similarly appreciate the ones aimed at a younger demographic that only speak their best to that age.
I've just finished this book - it is awesome! Don't be intimidated, read it now. You can always reread it when you reach my age (39)! Enjoy.
I just read this for the first time and I'll be 33 next month. It's a fantastic read that has easily become one of my favorites. Ben (message 10) is correct in stating that the translators use very straight-forward language and that the plot is not too difficult to follow. I firmly believe that books come to you when they will be most beneficial for you. If your time with those Karamazov brothers is at 19, then delve on in! Have fun and enjoy your beautiful copy!
This is very accessible, don't be scared. It's great to read good literature when you are young; it can color and influence your life in subtle and profound ways. I read War and Peace as an adult, but wish I had not been intimidated by it earlier. It's a huge book, but the story is fresh and kept me engaged. However, if you find The Brothers Karamazov hard going, don't torture yourself, put it aside and vow to revisit it later.
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.I keep wondering if I..."
I've known for years that this is a book that I ought to read, which isn't the best motivation for anything. I finally read it for the first time 3 years ago, after two failed attempts. It's not a question of intelligence so much as application.I found the cast to be the first barrier and had to keep referring to the cast list in order to get orientated. The fact that it is included at all is an encouragement, akin to saying "you're not the only one who was daunted by this! Here's alittle help". By the time you get used to the characters in all their name variations then you're in! The next barrier is that it is written as a vehicle for ideas current at the turn of the century in another culture. But like Shaheen says it is actually quite accessible once you're chapter or so in. Think of it as a big four course meal, take your time, savour each course, enjoy the flavours and digest it. just read it and worry about all the depth afterwards,then reread it if you see fit. I'm a 45 yr old pastor and graduate, for what that's worth :-)
Pete, as you said, "Think of it as a big four course meal, take your time, savour each course, enjoy the flavours and digest it. just read it and worry about all the depth afterwards,then reread it if you see fit."How very true. I see so many people on here in a rush to finish big books. Big books should be taken slowly, enjoy them, especially this one, which has been called the greatest novel ever written. It is not something to read and toss into the pile. So full of wonderful gems, little stories, great characters, a very special book.
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.I keep wondering if I..."
I see no reason why you shouldn't read the book. Intelligence has no age limits. The more you know the better for you the wider your world view. Let no one tell you you can't do this you can't do that. You have only to believe in yourself and that is what is important.
For me, I have to be "ready" to read a book, particularly when it comes to any of the "classics." There were several times I picked up "Moby Dick" and then put it down, recognizing I wasn't ready to read it. Then the day came when I began reading it and finished it. And I loved it!I think people force themselves too often to read a book because they think they should, and as a result, they didn't enjoy the book and are left with a poor impression.
I say if you find yourself starting The Brothers Karamazon, which, by the way, is a tremendous book, and you just ain't feeling it, put it down, don't force yourself to read it just because you think you should. You'll know you're ready to read it when you find yourself making time to do so.
The thing is I know I really want to read it, but I still can't seem to do it. But then, I can't seem to read anything right now, unless it's some stupid chick flick. I had to force myself through a 5 page Dahl short story. I just don't want to ruin the book by forcing it on myself. Or by reading it when I wasn't supposed to.
I first read The Brothers Karamazov when 16. It is not an easy literature and though it is time-consuming, it is a magnificent book. The kind you never forget.I know many people see reading it as some kind of confirmation of their intelligence - so they push themselves to finish it - which I believe is really just plain stupid. If you already started it but have to force yourself to read, don't. You have to find the time to really feel it. Otherwise you'll end up with a poor impression.
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.
I keep wondering if I..."
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.
I keep wondering if I..."
Fatin wrote: "The thing is I know I really want to read it, but I still can't seem to do it. But then, I can't seem to read anything right now, unless it's some stupid chick flick. I had to force myself through ..."My whole life I have never been scared of reading a book. I pick one and I start to read, it is the only reason I look for a book. The brothers Karamozov is a philosophical essay. Now tell me Fatin, are you too young to consider morals, god belief and stuff like that or where is the fear coming from. That is the part I don't get.
Hi everyone, let me try to give an opinion mainly to Fatin who seems to be experiencing some difficulty with this book. First of all you're not stupid by any means, otherwise you wouldn't have never bought this book. Unquestionably IMHO, it's the best novel ever published in the last two centuries. You'd better try to get in touch with Dostoevsky's mind and soul before start reading his masterpieces. Once you wear "the right glasses", I'm sure you'll be delighted to read this book, as well as "Crime And Punishment" also. Please accept my apologies for the poor english; it's not my mother language.
Ben wrote: "Dostoevsky uses very straight-forward language (or at least his translators do!), so it is not all that difficult to follow the plot of the novel. One of the charms of this book is that it can be a..."Totally agree, don't psyche yourself out - it's a 19th century novel, not some kind of postmodern purely intellectual creation. It's extremely emotional, and he keeps the plot moving along very well. Before anything else, it's a novel that's meant to be read. You don't need to have any special qualifications or maintain any special reverence for it. It's a good novel, that I can guarantee you, and you will be sucked into caring about most, if not all, of the characters. But you'd really be grabbing the wrong end of the stick if you start off thinking of it as a sort of philosophical masterpiece, blah blah. It's just a novel, written by a guy with a gift for writing and for psychological observation, and who had been through some incredible experiences in his life, during a fascinating period in Russian history. So a few different elements all came together in Dostoevsky's writing that make it unique. Treat it just like you would any other book. Read a hundred pages, and if you're not into, put it down. You don't have to take a test to start, and there will not be an exit interview if you decide you don't like it.
Congratulations, Peter! You've done a very precise and articulated review about the subject-matter. Happy 2013!
I found that it was not so much the language or even the style as the characters' names. Trying to remember who was who with nicknames to boot was a little daunting at first reading. I have since read all of Dostoevsky and this particular book three times now. I have been a barber for 47 years now and my favorite moral tales that I tell many of my customers are the Russian tales in this book about the onion and the stubborn man. Those little Russian tales pack a big wallup!
I first read The Brothers Karamazov and Crime and Punishment in my early 20's. I recall both books as rather depressing - unrelentingly so.Nevertheless, they were enthralling, gripping and I emerged from the experience a great deal richer.
For me it is now 50+ years ago and I look forward to a reread. I am more scared of the prospect now - my equivalent of a theme park ride.
This fear was more psychological than anything else, I just worked myself up about it! Well, you'll all be happy to hear I decided to pick up Crime and Punishment first, and that was a great idea! It was a brilliant read, and I'm not scared of Dostoevsky anymore.
I read it a few months ago. I have great respect for Dostoevsky and I, too, felt intimidated to read "The Brothers Karamazov". Last summer I took a long "leave of absence" from reading as I read an average of four books a month for 2-3 years. So, I took a rest and when I felt the time was right, I returned to my favorite habit with a great book. "The Brothers Karamazov". And it turned out to be an excellent choice. It is very easy to read, Dostoevsky treats all his characters with love and respect and he makes you think without making an effort to understand him. It does get a bit tiring but it is a BIG book, now, isn't it? I was surprised to find myself enjoying reading it and all my fears vanishing into thin air from the very first pages. I loved it from the moment I got my hands on it and am really proud of my come-back choice of a book. I read all four volumes in less than a month.
Do give it a go. To tell you the truth, it's really nothing more than a simple story.
Oh, and I'm 35 years old. I have absolutely no regrets for not reading it earlier. It was the right time.
Hello, all. Thanks for your encouragement, and kind (and not so kind) words.I'm finished with the book, and here is my review:
http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/...
Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.I keep wondering if I..."
I have the same problem, I bought it in a book fair two months ago and I still haven't read it.
I'm not afraid of reading it per se, but I can't avoid feeling... uncertain? I feel like I need more expirience to read it, but I'll give it a try on vacations.
Oh, and I'm eighteen...
Diana wrote: "Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading this.I keep ..."
Diana, just read the book, you will enjoy and there is no age for reading a book
Diana, I understand what you're going through, it's more of a psychological thing than anything else. I decided to read Crime and Punishment first! I think that helped me get over the "holyshitwhatifI'mnotsmartenoughforthis"
You can read every book, but whether you will understand or enjoy it is different issue. I read The Brothers Karamazov when I was about 17 and I really enjoyed it, but it took me a re-reading and discussion-night a few years later to get a bit of an understanding of the underlying themes. Guess I was too young or too unfamiliar with the issues it deals with.Just start reading, you'll find out whether you like it or not, but I think you will like it. It has so much to offer in terms of story line, character depth, style of writing and underlying philosophical questions.
Onyango wrote: "Diana wrote: "Fatin wrote: "I bought this book around a month or so ago, from this used book shop. My copy is beautiful, and I absolutely love it but for some reason I still haven't started reading..."I know, I'm plan reading it on vacation, I'll give it a try, Afterall,what can go wrong?
Fatin wrote: "Diana, I understand what you're going through, it's more of a psychological thing than anything else. I decided to read Crime and Punishment first! I think that helped me get over the "holyshitwhat..."Yeah, I've read some works from Dostoyevsky, Notes from the Underground, The Idiot and The Double, I guess I'm going to understand better this book and I'll finally get over the "holyshitwhatifI'mnotsmartenoughforthis" fear. Thanks.
Don't fear the Russian! Dostoyevsky is like, everyman. If everyman was a really talented writer.
Heather wrote: "Don't fear the Russian! Dostoyevsky is like, everyman. If everyman was a really talented writer."Don't fear the Russians, but be in awe of Dostoevsky, the mad genius.
It's so big my edition has 1050 pages and in small font, I am scared i might stop in between after getting bored.
Longest book i read is Ulysses.
If you can make it through Ulysses, you can make it through anything. Dostoevsky is wayyy easier to tackle. IMO at least.
Husky - yeah, Karamazov took me a while to get through - I think I dedicated most of last summer to it. But it's definitely worth the read. Even if you have to reread a few passages, or put the book down for a few minutes to reflect on what you just read, it's definitely doable. There are easily some of the most beautiful concepts I've ever found put into writing in this book. Completely worth the time and effort.And for the record, I was an English major and got an A in a graduate-level class, but I've never been able to make it further than 10 pages into Ulysses. So I think you've got this. ;)
I think the age starting reading for Dostoievsky should be at least 16,but if you started with The Brothers Karamazov then i understand the difficulties.I had a course on Dostoievsky at college and we had a list,from the easier works(short stories) and we continued slowly to Crime and Punishment,The Idiot and the last was the Brothers Karamazov,because the authors previous works were all made in preparation for his huge dostoievskian theory book.The funny was that this book should've have a sequel,where Dostoievsky would've presented the events following the actions in Karamazov,only focusing on Aleosa.Too bad we don't have that book to.Anyway,if you take the books in order,at the end,you'll be able to read the Karamozovi and understand easilly.Happy reading!
I was totally intimidated by the book and waited til I was 60 and semi-retired to tackle it. I also felt uncultured in terms of the classics so I forced myself to read it. The first 147 pages were pure tortuere, but I perservered and began to enjoy it. I was proud of myself for finishing it and getting a lot out of the book. It helped that in my copy there was a forward of about 40 pages that described the times, the philosophy and psychology of the writer. Go for it! It'll make you proud you did.
Old thread, I'm sure you've read it by now. . . but my two cents worth: I read it when I was in my 20s, didn't find it especially difficult. The Russians in general take some getting used to— as, for that matter, do any writers separated from us by a hundred years or more. Cultural differences are reflected everywhere, from values to literary pacing. That said, if you give yourself a bit of time, and allow yourself to get used to those differences, the rest is not difficult.
Leonard wrote: "Heather wrote: "Don't fear the Russian! Dostoyevsky is like, everyman. If everyman was a really talented writer."Don't fear the Russians, but be in awe of Dostoevsky, the mad genius."
Ha, ha, I was just being weird, referring to Dostoevsky as "The Russian". I did not mean them, collectively.
I keep wondering if I'm too..stupid to read this. I actually believe I'm more intelligent than the average human, but still, maybe I need a little more experience in life. Maybe I need more years to my life before I read this.
Then I wonder if I'm making a big mistake and not reading it in my prime years and wouldn't be able to enjoy this later on. Kind of like The Catcher in the Rye, some people I've talked to read it later on in life and didn't enjoy it as much as I did.
Though The Brothers Karamazov isn't teen angst.
When did y'all read it? How old were you? Am I ready for this?
(I'm nineteen.)