One-line summary:
Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader is a delightful collection of essays by Anne Fadiman that explores the joys and idiosyncrasies of being an avid reader.
The Joys of Reading
Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader is a love letter to books and the pleasure of reading. Anne Fadiman, a self-proclaimed “common reader,” takes readers on a delightful journey through her personal experiences and reflections on the world of literature. Fadiman’s essays are filled with wit, humor, and a deep appreciation for the written word.
In “Marrying Libraries,” Fadiman explores the challenges and joys of merging two book collections when she marries her husband. She humorously recounts the negotiations and compromises that come with combining their libraries, highlighting the emotional attachment readers have to their books. Fadiman’s anecdotes will resonate with any book lover who has ever struggled to part with a beloved volume.
Another essay, “Never Do That to a Book,” delves into the delicate relationship readers have with their books. Fadiman discusses the different types of readers, from the pristine “courtly” readers who treat their books with utmost care to the “carnal” readers who dog-ear pages and write in the margins. She explores the debate between those who believe books should remain untouched and those who see them as vessels for personal interaction and interpretation. Fadiman’s musings on this topic are both insightful and entertaining, reminding readers that there is no right or wrong way to engage with a book.
The Power of Words
Ex Libris also explores the power of words and the impact they can have on our lives. In “The Joy of Sesquipedalians,” Fadiman celebrates the beauty and complexity of long words. She revels in the sheer pleasure of discovering and using obscure and multisyllabic words, highlighting the joy of language and the way it can enrich our thoughts and expressions.
Fadiman also delves into the world of book collecting in “Scorn Not the Sonneteer.” She explores the allure of rare books and the passion that drives collectors to seek out and preserve these literary treasures. Fadiman’s exploration of the book collecting world provides fascinating insights into the motivations and obsessions of bibliophiles.
The Quirks of Reading
Throughout Ex Libris, Fadiman shares her own quirks and idiosyncrasies as a reader, inviting readers to reflect on their own reading habits. In “The Catalogical Imperative,” she humorously describes her obsession with organizing her books, creating elaborate systems and categories to ensure each book finds its rightful place. Fadiman’s anecdotes will resonate with anyone who has ever spent hours rearranging their bookshelves or meticulously cataloging their reading lists.
In “My Odd Shelf,” Fadiman reveals her penchant for collecting odd and unusual books. She shares stories of her encounters with bizarre titles and obscure subjects, showcasing the joy of stumbling upon unexpected literary gems. Fadiman’s passion for the peculiar reminds readers that there is a book out there for everyone, no matter how niche or peculiar their interests may be.
Ex Libris: Confessions of a Common Reader is a delightful exploration of the joys, quirks, and power of reading. Anne Fadiman’s essays are a celebration of the written word and a reminder of the profound impact books can have on our lives. Whether you are a lifelong bookworm or a casual reader, this collection is sure to resonate and inspire.
- Reading is a deeply personal and emotional experience.
- There is no right or wrong way to engage with a book.
- Books have the power to shape our thoughts and experiences.
“Books wrote our life story, and as they accumulated on our shelves (and on our windowsills, and underneath our sofa, and on top of our refrigerator), they became chapters in it themselves.”
