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October 24, 2005
Huckleberry Finn
Clemens, Adventures of Huckleberry Finn (to Ch 24) -- American Literature, 1800-1915 (EL 266)
I really like reading this book so far, it is a very nice change from the other texts we have been reading in class. I also really like the fact that the dialogue is very forward. There are not layers of symbolism that need to be uncovered just to get the basics of the story. One part that I really liked so far was in chapter five. I really liked the fact that he is no longer scared of his father. Huck says, "I used to be scared of him all the time, he tanned me so much. I reckoned I was scared now, too; but in a minute I see I was mistaken." I thought that this really showed how Huck knows that he can take care of himself. It if funny that Huck is everything that his father cannot even come close to being and that really bothers his father. Huck is willing to do anything just to spite his father and show him that he can do anything. I am interested to read the rest of the book, it seems like there are so many little adventures throughout the book.
Posted by StacyEstatico at October 24, 2005 11:08 PM
Comments
There are plenty symbols and layerings in the book, but you're right -- Clemens makes sure to drop in anecdotes and adventures to entertain the reader, even as he continues to develop his deeper themes.
Posted by: Dennis G. Jerz at October 24, 2005 11:12 PM
Personally I am having a hard time finding symbolism . I think I really need to dig deeper into this book.
Posted by: michelle koss at October 25, 2005 09:22 PM
Think in terms of the journey, adventure and all that it stands to symbolize. A writer like Twain wouldn't write a novel like Huck Finn and not have an agenda behind it. There's a lot of change that occurs in Huck's life, mainly because the Jim is the main catalyst. Or is it the other way around? The river is a huge symbol for order, chaos, life, freedom and the journey in general. Keep reading...I'm sure you'll find it.
Posted by: Neha at October 26, 2005 11:22 PM