Sense and Sensibility

Sense and Sensibility is the classic tale of Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, two sisters who share a remarkable bond of love despite their differences. Marianne is given to emotionalism; Elinor is refined and self-controlled. Both women indulge in unhealthy extremes of these mindsets throughout the story and yet they find that they are in many ways alike as they walk through life and search for love.

Jane Austen is one of my favorite historical authors. Her characters are real and I found that I could identify with Marianne especially. The only thing I found to be questionable was the character of Margaret. She was rarely present and did not seem to contribute much to the story.

The version of this book that I read was very insightful. Throughout the story there were notes in the side margin that explained certain words that may have been unfamiliar to some readers. The notes also mentioned parallels between Jane’s life and the lives of her characters. Having seen the 1995 version of the movie, I had some expectations as to what the book would be like. As with most films that are based on books, I found that I enjoyed the book more than the movie simply because the book gives so much more depth to the characters and their situations.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers as part of their Blogger Review Program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commision's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

A Bit of Jane Austen Trivia

Jane Austen was 19 when she began writing Sense and Sensibility. It was published when she was 36. 

Sometimes good things take awhile.  And that's okay.

Writing

The best time for me to write is early in the morning. Right after I've woken up, brushed my teeth and taken care of morning basics. Then I hop to the computer and let it flow out. It just seems like I am more creative and writing is easier at that time of day. Perhaps it's because I've been dreaming all night and occasionally I get some of my writing ideas from my dreams. I can also write better on days that I have the day off from work and can relax some.

Unfortunately, I don't have the chance to ever do this except on Saturday mornings which is why my creative writing gets a lot less attention that the freelance articles I do. I can write them anytime because it's basically just stating facts and research to help someone make an informed decision. After a day at work, I find that my creativity is completely gone. I am empty of anything good and happy. I definitely understand why they call it the daily grind. Because it wears you down in every way - physically, mentally, emotionally, spiritually.