Re-reading

I used to believe in only reading a book once. Not because it wasn't good and I didn't enjoy it, but because there was just so much to read, I didn't have time to read the same things over again. Turns out I was wrong.

I just finished re-reading The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde for my literary lesson job. The first time I read it was about a year ago in Japan (beggars can't be choosers when you are dependant on the foreign language section of your local second-hand shop). I didn't love it then. I still don't love it now. But rereading it, exposed a depth and nuance I missed the first go round.

I had the same experience re-reading Murakami's Norwegian Wood. The story still pissed me off a great deal. It rekindled my anger at the Japanese mental health system. But the second time through also gave me deeper insight into the characters and the real heart of the story.

Interesting. As I have re-read book after book, I have realized my fondness for the material doesn't always change (in some cases it even gets worse), but my appreciation and understanding of the artistry increases. The first time through, it is all about the surface story. The second time, I am able to dive in and find the deeper truth.

I have started re-reading books that aren't part of my job. Books that I read just for me.  Books I enjoyed. Stories I cherished. I wonder if I will find the same undercurrent waiting for me? I hope so.