DownwardSpiral
Member
- Jan 21, 2026
- 44
While getting into reading more often I stumbled upon "Great Expectations" by Charles Dickens and wow. I never read classic literature outside of school, but this book stood out to me as soon as I heard the title. In a way I guess I had great expectations for it, and it sure delivers. I am only about halfway through so far, but the themes are so mature and deep. It is such an incredible depiction of dealing with the hardships of coming of age, societal expectations, loneliness, and navigating the human experience, and even though it is over 150 years old, the differences of the times doesn't isolate modern readers or bring down the books value.
If you don't know, the story is about an orphan boy with an abusive family in 1800s London who desires escaping his pitiful life and moving on to greater things. I won't spoil anything else. I relate deeply with that concept as I am sure many of you do as well. I think we all have dealt with having great expectations for how our lives should go, be it placed on us by society or by ourselves or both, and failing and struggling to reach them. Also I have to say, even in the form of a long classic novel, it is maybe more enjoyable than a good movie. The pacing, characters, humor, and the vivid imagery are all outstanding.
It amazes me that this old stuff I once saw as only boring history that isn't relevant to modern life, can actually be so insightful and masterfully crafted. I'm keen to seek out more classic media like this to hopefully find more wisdom pertaining to my inner feelings and struggles that can help me find new perspectives. I'll probably start with more Charles Dickens.
I'm going to go sit outdoors and continue reading it now :) Have any of you read anything eye opening?
If you don't know, the story is about an orphan boy with an abusive family in 1800s London who desires escaping his pitiful life and moving on to greater things. I won't spoil anything else. I relate deeply with that concept as I am sure many of you do as well. I think we all have dealt with having great expectations for how our lives should go, be it placed on us by society or by ourselves or both, and failing and struggling to reach them. Also I have to say, even in the form of a long classic novel, it is maybe more enjoyable than a good movie. The pacing, characters, humor, and the vivid imagery are all outstanding.
It amazes me that this old stuff I once saw as only boring history that isn't relevant to modern life, can actually be so insightful and masterfully crafted. I'm keen to seek out more classic media like this to hopefully find more wisdom pertaining to my inner feelings and struggles that can help me find new perspectives. I'll probably start with more Charles Dickens.
I'm going to go sit outdoors and continue reading it now :) Have any of you read anything eye opening?
