Jane Austen

[Caramello]

I read Austen in Year 11 and 12.

I absolutely love Pride and Prejudice, mainly for the portrayal of Elizabeth. She was strong enough to tell Darcy exactly what she thought of him after that pathetic proposal. She also refused to marry her cousin, whereas her best friend realised that she had little choice but to accept.

I love her, because even then she was ready to hold onto her beliefs.

However, I was quite ready to give Emma a firm slap. That pathetic riddle about her name - "What two letters of the alphabet are there, that express perfection?" 'MA' - had me throwing the book at the wall a couple of times. The character really irritated me and I haven't read any other Austen - after being so enamoured with Pride and Prejudice and so disappointed with Emma.

I also just wanted to let you know that the ABC is having an Austen festival, and Emma is on tonight at 8.30pm, for anyone that is interested.

[danniellabella]

I just bought the complete works of Jane Austin. A beautifully bound black book in the style of an old fashion book which I love.

I've started with Mansfield Park coz I have never read or seen that one before. I'll be the first to admit that I have started reading a few of her books but never finished because they are so wordy and some of the words I haven't understood. But I'm making it my aim to actually finish reading a story. I see it as a way to enjoy a good story while improving my vocab & spelling. She certainly has a wonderful way with words. So far I found with Mansfield Park that she just jumps right into the story rather than fluffing around for one or two chapters like so many other writers seem to do. I like when authors just get straight into it like she does. Her life facinates me and any time there is a documentary or something about her, I love to watch it.
My whole inpiration for wanting to write a book came from her. I just have no idea where to start. One day I hope to write something, even it it never gets published.