Which Henry James book should I read first?
Which Henry James book should I read first?
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Washington Square
The Turn Of The Screw
The only one I loved was Washington square.
I loved Washington Square, The Ambassadors, and Turn of the Screw. (Haven’t read the others.) You might want to read them in that order.
I read Portrait of a Lady first and loved it. But that was in school with an excellent professor. I would say, whatever you choose, don’t get in a hurry. His is not the modern cinematic pace. But he’s worth the effort; you will get to know his characters in a delicate, sensitive, and thorough way. And remember, his works are always about characters feeling out of place, usually navigating the differences between European and American Society.
NONE OF THEM ?
Portrait of a Lady was okay-ish. But reading him is more of a chore than a joy. I highly doubt I’ll read him again in this lifetime. There are too many other books that deliver a more positive experience.
Portrait of a Lady is my favorite. Not a quick read. For James, all the important stuff happens in glances, in postures, in silences. That said, he creates real women characters in conflicts that matter.
Have you read any Edith Wharton? Similar but I find her more readable.
Wharton is easier but please don’t stop reading James!