A few books from my Woolf collection. I will be systematic in reading Woolf this year, but unsystematic in which of her texts I read when. Much of the time I will go back en forth, combining her original work with texts on her work. I will also focus on her non-fiction with the same interest as I have for the fictional work.
These books were laying on my desk this morning. Some are new, some are old ones that I keep reading all the time. The big, fat green one at the bottom is a book on how to become a better writer. Some of Dillard’s books are always around. De Waal’s book is a gift from a good friend of mine – I haven’t got the chance to read it yet – have you?
I dont listen to music when I read or write, but when I’m sorting out my desk (or my brain – which in a way seems to be very similar processes) I love listening to music. Most often it will be Bach. Lately I have also spent some fantastic hours with Bela Bartok. Anyways: all music becomes great in the hands of Richter, and today I’m enjoying his Beethoven recording.
sub rosa 
I found a few treasures in your pile of books…Psychogeography and Maps of the Imagination. As far as Woolf…I have many of her books. Will you be writing your thoughts concerning her here?
Yes, my plan is to do a bit of Woolf writing too!
I couldn’t resist the Turchi book, so have that before me at some time. I’ve not read the De Waal book, but have looked at it in the book store and it is a pleasing edition.
True, I was very lucky to get the illustrated edition of De Waal – its really very very beautiful.
Sigrun, I must be honest and confess that I am guilty of coveting your Woolf collection! You will certainly be busy this year, and time well spent for sure! I noticed one volume entitled A Writer’s Life” and am intrigued. I have not heard of this before — am assuming it is a biography — and am looking forward to reading your thoughts when you’ve finished it.
Do you know if there are any books specifically about the Woolfs and their Hogarth Press? Just an aspect of her life I find interesting and would like to read more about……
Hi Angela,
you can read more about Gordon’s biography “A Writer’s Life” here:
http://www.lyndallgordon.net/books/index.html
(I have not read it yet)
When it comes to questions about the Hogarth Press I recommend a visit to: http://bloggingwoolf.wordpress.com/
Hooray! Can’t wait to check these out! Thank you so much, Sigrun, for directing me to a path to explore. Looking forward to reading about your adventures with Woolf through the coming year!
Cheers!
Sigrun,
What a fine idea. You are looking ahead.
My best,
Micheline
Hi Sigrun
I read the de Waal book just before Christmas but not the illustrated edition. It is beautifully written and very interesting as an alternative to so many mundane records of family histories. Have recently read Jacob’s Room which I loved and am going for The Waves next but have got distracted on a Russian theme!