For the month of February, I thought it would be appropriate to read the quintessential 'chick flick' books. Jane Austen came to mind ... love, marriage, and all the problems that come from dating/flirting/miscommunication. I started with Sense & Sensibility because I have always felt a connection to Elinor. Her temperament is very similar to mine -- the silent suffering type. I'm not a very open person when it comes to feelings of love or even attraction. I've been fooled enough times now to know not to open my mouth in order not to get burned.
Jane Austen is a very interesting writer. It takes her a long time to say something. Her story not only includes her main plot, but about 4 other tangents off of that main story. All the parts are interconnected and affect the main heroine of the story. But at times I feel as if the story is more about the events on the sides, rather than the main attraction.
** SPOILER **
I was also shocked to find that Willoughby comes to Elinor. I mean, the most interaction I have had with Sense & Sensibility is the Ang Lee adaptation with Emma Thompson. I thoroughly enjoy that movie, so it lead me to read the book. However, for thematic reasons the scene when Willoughby comes to explain himself was left out. I have mixed feelings for the scene, but I still feel it was an important event in the story line. It finishes the Willoughby/Marianne conflict a little more completely. Because of that scene, I hate Willoughby even more because he is such a [donkey], knowingly committing wrong to a dear sister. On the other hand, I feel and sympathize with him a little more knowing why he acted the way he did.
I guess it is always good to read the book and not just rely on the movie.
Final Score: 4 out of 5 stars
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