Dune Frank Herbert

“Dune" is, without exaggeration, an era, a magnitude in literature that is difficult to overestimate. A science fiction saga, with elements of the novel of chronicles and adulthood, space opera and dystopia, metaphorical narrative full of philosophy and mysticism.

The first trilogy of the classic cycle is full of the life and life of a free people, the planetary ecosystem including the giant worms, echoes of courtly strife, the structure of organizations equally ruling the Known Universe but also dependent on the spice that is produced only on Arrakis.

High and intense text full of concentrated substrate based on religion, politics, ecology, legal and cultural issues, immediate survival, while learning about the future.

The plot is fascinating, like standing in the center of a huge temple complex in Kornak, where the desert wind brings the essence of plans within plans.

Compared to the TV series and screen adaptations, the book predetermines the accents in relation to the characters, making them full and vivid, clear in plot twists, meeting the author's intent and the logic of behavior under given conditionsThe story itself I really liked, probably partly because I generally love fiction and somehow have not read something interesting and non-anal of this genre for a long time. A lot of fiction books are based on Christianity, and this is the first book in my memory that is based on Islam.

I also like the way Frank Herbert describes the characters' looks - almost without details, leaving room for imagination. The story is not long, lively enough and colorful enough, and I have experienced this forgotten feeling again and again, when I want to return to the book to find out what is going on.One of the main themes is the opposition between the houses of Atreides and Harkonnen. In these quotes, a clear example of the difference between the houses: the Atreides pay love for loyalty, while the Harkonnens gain submission through hatred. 'How much he talks! - Hawat thought. - This is not Duke Leto, who could speak to me with a wave of the hand, a movement of the eyebrow. What a carcass! The author (maybe the translation) shows Vladimir Harkonnen as a huge carcass, which has accumulated large reserves of precious water. This is the main peculiarity of the desert Arrakis. Arrakis. A desert planet, also known as Dune. There, under the scorching sun, there float huge worms on the sand, from which it is impossible to hide. There’s a free folk out there - Fremen with blue-tinted eyes that cover even squirrels. And, most importantly, Arrakis - the only place where the spice is extracted. Spice or melange - the most important wealth in the universe. If water is commonplace on Kaladan... here, in the desert conditions, its value is high. To show your respect, love, loyalty, you must share water. Whether it's spitting or mourning the dead. One of my favorite characters is the planetologist Kynes, who dreamed of turning the desert into an oasis. His father managed to plant and implement this idea among the Freemen, and his son continued his work ... Freemen are a hardened people of the desert with their own philosophy and way of life...they were told that the work of greening Arrakis is labor-intensive and the results can be fully appreciated only by the eighth generation. Not only that, but the Freemen and the Kynes did not abandon it, but passed it on from generation to generation. Valuable and very much appreciated. Chani is a great representative of the Freemen. Honestly, I didn't really understand why Jessica didn't think she was a good match for her son, even though she thought she was a worthy representative of the Bine Gesaerit school. Chani is wise, intelligent and loving to Paul. She is such a reliable and strong support for him.In general, the novel is a very interesting story, competently combining social problems, political peripetias, religious ascents, life philosophy, many multi-layered mysteries, and I think, even some meditation.And all this cornucopia is doused in beautiful, smooth, syllable with detailed, distinctive style descriptions that include perfectly developed characters. I wholeheartedly recommend the novel, I don't know if I'll be able to experience all six books, but I'm now serious about part two. For anyone interested, I recommend that you be patient and take your time with this story, getting to know it at your own pace.

I have a rather long and concise review of one of my any books, but I don't know how to post it. I also have hours of editing ahead of me.

Taylor Swift can call herself "the head of the department of tortured poets." In her new songs, we hear her catharsis, where she talks about her understanding of adulthood and adult romantic relationships. These are her thirty years of breakup stories, filled with sadness, bitterness, anger, and vulnerability, but they are also more chaotic than ever before. Tortured Poets combines the intimate acoustic sound of Folklore and Evermore with the synth-pop brilliance of Midnights. Instead of fantastical characters, she decided to put her personal feelings into songs that tell the story of her personal trials. Some of the songs tackle devastating breakups, like "So Long, London" or "loml," while others are joyful, like "My Boy Only Breaks His Favorite Toys" or "Bad Mood." But more often than not, it's both, just as she jokes in "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" "Tell me it's not about me, but what if it is?"🤍

The novel "Confessions of a Mask" by Yukio Mishima stands out as one of the finest works in the author's repertoire. Serving as Mishima's debut novel, it bears a strong autobiographical nature. The protagonist, Kimi, serves as the author's alter ego. Published in 1949, during a time when societal morals were stricter and norms less accepting, the novel sparked scandal and shocked readers. "Confessions of a Mask" can be seen as a coming-of-age novel, focusing on the maturation process of a teenager as he tries to understand himself, his emotions, and the motivations behind his actions. Kimi realizes that he is different from his peers in many ways, lacking the same interest in girls and displaying indifference towards women. In his quest for self-understanding, he begins to wear a metaphorical "mask" to blend in with others. Kimi attempts to fall in love with a girl, which leads him to Sonoko, the sister of a friend. However, I interpret this book as a tale of personal growth and self-realization. It is incredibly candid, at times cynical, yet also touching and evoking sympathy. The inability to love and receive love, the constant struggle to conform to societal expectations, and the continuous act of wearing masks that almost blend seamlessly with reality are all elements that are authentically portrayed. In these confessions, the "mask" explains to both himself and the reader why he is the way he is. One notable aspect is Kimi's relationship with Sonoko, which highlights his acute appreciation for beauty and his ability to admire the aesthetic qualities of women. However, his admiration remains purely contemplative, further emphasizing his inherent uniqueness. "Confessions of a Mask" serves as a journey of self-discovery for the protagonist. Through heartache, rejection, and attempts at self-improvement, he reflects on his own identity and the role he plays in society. The novel delves into forbidden yet sensual desires. It draws associations with paintings, literary works, and the protagonist's own attempts to create artistic imagery through words. This adds depth and richness to the narrative, allowing readers to experience a range of emotions while exploring themes of identity, self-acceptance, and societal pressures. In conclusion, "Confessions of a Mask" is a remarkable novel that explores the complexities of personal growth and self-realization. Mishima's candid and thought-provoking storytelling paints a vivid picture of a young man's journey towards understanding his own identity. The novel remains as relevant today as it was when it was first published, inviting readers to reflect on their own experiences of wearing masks and embracing their true selves.

Women, they have minds, and they have souls, as well as just hearts. And they've got ambition, and they've got talent, as well as just beauty. I'm so sick of people saying that love is just all a woman is fit for. I'm so sick of it.

[Almost crying] 

 But I'm so lonely...

Jo March little women

I miss the illustrations in books so much. That feeling when you match the pictures to the text and look at them so long and carefully, and then reread the passage again and savour every word and every picture.

I love literature, I love art, I love writing essays, I love culture and history, I love knowledge and mystery, I love studying until dawn, I love unexpected plot twists and sighs of surprise, I love old books, I love black gel pens, I love drinking tea after a hard day's work, I love, love, love.

The author of a collage I found on Pinterest: ghoulshavemorefun

For the past two days I've been reading To Kill a Mockingbird. I love this book, it's not the first time I've read it.

do I have a heart?

No!

I have other people's blood, other people's flesh, other people's thoughts, and my heart was dug up in the nearest cemetery and placed in my chest to be, to feel, to see, to hear.....

but none of this is mine.

I am an impostor and my name has been stolen.

Reading is not routine. So what if I don’t finish the last two series of books I started that I promised to finish? It shouldn’t pressure me or anyone else. Books are meant to enjoy them. to meet you, tired after a long day, with new worlds and new ideas. reading should not tire you.

It’s not built for that.

fall in love 🪷

fall in love with the one poem that made you cry a lot, fall in love with someone or something, the last sip of coffee, the empty bottle of whiskey, the half-written letter and the colour-changing sky.

fall in love with the unpredictable weather and the land that can't always stay stable. fall in love with your best friend's nose when she wrinkles her nose at the smell of half-cooked food and the way she hugs you tightly every time you leave. fall in love with your mum's sparkling eyes and your dad's care. fall in love with everyone and everything, because life is a little less painful when you're in love with it.

Reading as a Process📖

When it comes to reading, I believe it is essential to view it as a process. Like any process, reading involves a specific sequence of actions and outcomes. However, it is often the case that we fail to consider the end result when approaching a book. This oversight is where the problem lies. We tend to focus too much on the actions involved – going to the bookstore, purchasing a book, reading it, and putting it back on the shelf – rather than on what we hope to gain from the reading experience.

It is crucial to understand that the ultimate result is not achieved simply by reaching the end of a book. Instead, it is determined by what we take away from it and how we engage with the material afterward. By "engagement," I am not referring solely to physical interaction, such as revisiting the book to underline important passages, jot down thoughts in the margins, or engage in debates with the author. I am also emphasizing the importance of what we do with the knowledge we acquire. The information we gather from reading should prompt us to take action.

After completing a book, it is worth reflecting on what we have learned and considering how we can apply that knowledge to our lives. It is through this post-reading analysis that we truly reap the benefits of the reading process. Whether it is implementing new strategies, adopting different perspectives, or engaging in meaningful discussions inspired by the book, the key is to actively incorporate the information into our lives.

Reading should be viewed as a transformative process – one that goes beyond the act of reading itself. It is the assimilation of ideas and concepts, and the subsequent actions resulting from our engagement with the material, that truly shape our understanding and growth. So, let us not overlook the importance of the end result when we embark on a reading journey. Instead, let us embrace the process and ensure that we make the most of the knowledge we gain.

The Red Palace June Hur

How about plunging into 18th century Joseon, that beautiful ancient era. Stroll the streets of the capital city, exploring the many goods in the market, walk through the forest, climb mountains and of course, visit the imperial palace. The Red Palace entices you with its incredible beauty. But be warned, the palace also holds many secrets. And one of these secrets will have to solve the main character.Inside the palace, it's usually quiet. The courtiers and servants are doing their masters' errands, the ministers and the king are solving state affairs, the concubines are peacefully strolling through the imperial garden, enjoying its picturesque beauty. The young girl Hyun, thanks to her hard work, gets a position as a palace nurse. However, one night changes the former calmness of the palace. Someone brutally murders four female nurses. And Hyun's close friend and mentor becomes the prime suspect in this serious crime. Not believing that the mentor could do such a terrible thing, the heroine decides to investigate the murder herself in order to find the true culprit. In this she is assisted by police inspector Ojin, who is also looking for the culprit. Despite the initial distrust and disagreements, they begin to work together. All for the sake of solving this bloody crime.The Red Palace is not only a fascinating story, but also a colourful description. Ms Hör has tried to recreate a realistic picture of life in Joseon, describing its atmosphere, culture, and the little things that help us to understand the country's peculiarities. This allows us, the readers, to immerse ourselves in the story and become a real witness to all the events that took place. The author's vision of the period makes the book particularly attractive.I also liked the main characters. It's impossible not to fall in love with them! Young Hyun impresses me with her strength, tenacity and determination. The way she fights against social prejudice and strives for success is inspiring. The way to achieve her goals is not easy, but the heroine does not intend to give up, she will get justice.And in this she will help Inspector Seo. I have to admit, this man won my heart. Ojin is a very calm, but no less determined, young man. He, like the heroine, wants to know the truth. I also liked the fact that he doesn't overshadow Hyun, but acts as an intellectual partner. The characters became a perfectly coordinated team.Well, The Red Palace is a truly fascinating historical novel. The atmosphere, characters and plot pierce to the heart, leaving a lasting impression. I recommend this book to anyone looking for thrilling adventure, intricate mysteries and colourful descriptions of events.

The Kingdom of Thorns and Roses Sarah J. Maas

And you know, I somehow underestimated this cycle when I looked at it from the outside. I have a complicated relationship with Maas. Her Throne of Glass series didn't impress me, I gave up on the first book and decided to give the Feyra series a chance .But a good tale. It would seem to be fantasy, but the definition of "fairy tale" is more appropriate here. From the very beginning you can guess the motifs of a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. And the further you go, the clearer these motifs become, although they are transformed to fit the new conditions of the genre. For example, Feyra (the protagonist) goes to the faerie world of her own volition, rather than the wish fulfilled by her father. Overall, Feyra is a fairly typical heroine. She is, of course, special. And she even has a special talent - archery. But she's written in a very organic way. The everyday life she has to exist in, the changes in her life, the down-to-earth importance of the heroine to the fae world - it all minimises the feeling that the whole universe exists just for Feyra's sake. Maas paid a lot of attention to the world itself and the description of the fae. There are the fae people - the highest nobility - and there are the fae, who are divided into many subspecies, each of which is vividly described. Without a doubt, this is beautiful. Honestly, I expected anything from this book, but not what I ended up with. Sarah Maas never ceases to amaze me, and I'm so glad she did.Of the fairytale elements, in addition to magic, curses, and gorgeous gardens, there are three challenges and a mystery worth spending a lifetime trying to figure out. Which reminded me of the Three Wizards Tournament quests from Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. The Tamlin - Feyra - Rhysand love triangle (which isn't quite a triangle here yet, but I have a feeling it will become one) is very reminiscent of the Stefan - Elena - Damon love triangle from The Vampire Diaries. I mean, yes, it also clearly conforms to the canons of the genre. But that doesn't mean it makes the story worse. It works. And when it's decently written, it's always fascinating to follow the development of such relationships, and to choose who the main character stays with. The book itself is as easy to read as watching an episode of a magical, adventurous, romantic TV series that you are completely immersed in from the first few minutes. It harmoniously distributes the time between the action and love twists and turns. Events change, the conflicts between the characters are tense, which also adds dynamism to the plot. And most importantly - the story is written in a good syllable. When here you want to read something light, as relaxing as possible, but with exciting experiences for the characters. That everything was simple, but not primitive. To read and not spit from the solid pronouns and banal verbs. Then "The Kingdom of Thorns and Roses" - a great option. Another cycle in the piggy bank to "Vampire Academy", which relieves the head well.

- I want the simple humanity. carefree... not all of that....

It's a moment when you can just be here and now, without thinking about problems or responsibilities, when you can appreciate the beauty of the world around you and enjoy every little thing to cheer yourself up. When you can just live freely, where nothing bothers you.

I am so in love with the concept of solitude, aka loneliness, solitude.

I used to find moments of solitude unbearable, and the thought of not having anyone around made me shocked, and then hysterical.

I love all the times I can be with myself and do so much for myself. I love the moments when I can think about something, talk to myself out loud, and just take care of myself.

I think the concept of loneliness has been narrowed down too much, we think we are alone if we don't have friends. but that is never true, we are all surrounded by people, living organisms, things and meanings. buddha said "nothing ever exists completely alone, everything exists in dependence on everything".

so now loneliness no longer seems scary at all.

[ 🎀 ;🪐 ] that laughing laugh,

and those cool spring nights seem to be all about you.

♪ and no matter how many years go by ♪

I keep coming back again and again

to the place that was ours on the exact same

date on the calendar.

and I honestly don't know

if I'll ever be able to see you reflected in the water for a second,

but I do know that this whole place,

has always spoken to me about you.