Now, I like to think that I’m a reader who’s fairly comfortable with reading the average novel or series. The most ‘complex’ book I’ve ever read is 1984, so it’s safe to say that I am ok with reading, you know? Not amazing but ok. This book has me questioning my comprehension skills (I know it’s a tough book, but still!).
If you know what kind of book the House of Leaves is, the reason im struggling is probably fairly obvious. There are so many things going on within the first 20-30 pages alone, and everything is so difficult to read. I’m having to pause and reread paragraphs over and over again to understand what’s going on. Then there are changes in perspective, and just a writing style that I struggle to understand. I still have no idea who Zampanó even is, or when the House is actually going to show up in the story.
Added to that, it’s one weighty tome of a book. I have no idea how I’ll even read through this thing, but the concept fascinates me and I’d like to be able to read all of it at some point.
So, I’d truly appreciate some advice from those of you who have already read it. Should I be focusing on some bits more than others, is my approach wrong? Or should I simply read something else until I get better at understanding, and then come back to it?
by Sir_Oragon