Saturday, April 13, 2013

Reading Lolita in Tehran plus make up tips but who can be f@#*

   "Reading Lolita in Tehran, A Memoir in Books" by Azar Nafisi, proved to be a difficult marathon of read for most people. The author would often jump from discussions of literature to people and conflicts in Tehran. I confessed that I read this book before William was born and had the time and energy to concentrate!  Love it or hate it, this books sparked interesting topics of conversation.  We discussed how books can sometimes have an impact on us and sometimes change our perspective on different issues.

   The wearing of the veil played a major role in this book, as Nafisi had strong objections to wearing it, but caved in when given the opportunity to teach classes her way.  The women in her special class, once inside the safety of her home, were able to uncover themselves, revealing an array of colours and styles. We discussed how we usually dress and how we don't necessarily make as much effort, even though we have the freedom to do so.  This lead to Irene's confession regarding a tube of mascara she has kept since she was 16!  Olay cream seems to be the widespread recommended product.

Tahnee 3/10 Cloistered and plodding.  A treatise on classic literature or an account of life in Tehran during the war, spread too thin trying to be both.

Kay 4/10 hard to get into, an interesting account of Tehran in the 80's

Irene 8/10 a detail prose showcasing the influences of personal, professional culture and politics.

Debbie 2/10 really wanted to love it, could not get it

Anne-marie 6/10 provoking perspective

Hannah 8/10 enjoyed the detail accounts of both the books and life in Tehran

Next months book is" The Last King of Scotland" by Giles Foden, at Debbie's house
17 Ashby Court Seville ph 59644480, mob 0417977175
 bye
Hannah





 

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Hi all I hope everyone gets this message in time. I am coming down with a cold (the boys gave it to me) and cancelling book club for tonight.  We can have it next Tuesday evening, I hope everyone can make it.

Hope you had a good weekend.
bye
Hannah

Monday, April 1, 2013

reading lolita....questions

Hi there. Hope this makes sense as have baby on lap. one contact lense has just fallen out...

What did you learn about Iran from this book?

Have you read any books in the past that have taught you something about yourself?

Have you read any of the books discussed in this memoir? If so, do you agree with Nafisi's understanding of the novel? If not would you now like to read any of them and which ones?

Discuss the different attitudes towards the wearing of the veil and how "this piece of cloth" effects people differently.

Do you have any issues with censorship in Australia?

Address
36 Railway Rd Seville

bye
Hannah