Reading classic books for a second time

I am reading Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert at the moment. And it is my second time to read it.

Recently, I read The Great Gatsby for the second time. And prior to that I read Catcher in the Rye for the second time.

Prior to that I reread Catcher in the Rye. And I saw the book in a completely different light. I loved it the second time.

I wondered what all the fuss was about on first reading.

And reading for the second time has been far more enjoyable than the first read. Perhaps because the first time of reading I had some preconceived notions or expectations. Maybe the book, even though it is excellent, disappointed as it was not what I expected.

Second time around I tend to read more slowly and in a leisurely fashion. And I have more time to take in the writing, the details, the nuances which I may have missed the first time around.

I would liken it to gulping down a fine meal as opposed to taking my time and savouring each and every morsel.

I would recommend it. And I intend to read more of the classics for the second time.

To give each of us a second chance.

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