Dry Witted - Not for the faint of literary mind. Review on Pride and Prejudice - Jane Austen

Hi,

One of the classics that always stands in a prominent place in my bookshelf, this novel by Jane Austen is a masterpiece of wit couched in seemingly dry language.

In its simplest form, P&P is about a man and woman, both noble and proud, intellectually above all the characters in their families. You could call the man Pride and the woman Prejudice, since these are the traits that keep them blinded to the love and affection they have for each other.

The book traces their lives, from how they meet, what causes them to adopt their confrontationist stance and how other people could influence decisions. Perceptions based on assumptions are the main reasons for this enmity between the principal characters. An innocent couple, His best friend (of course its a man!) and Her sister, are caught in the battle and suffer.

Once the mists are blown away by the wind of reason and good counsel, they see the sun of Love shining brightly in their hearts (My! I am beginning to write good lines myself!).

I recommend this book to anyone who loves subtelity, someone who loves the dialogues and can understand the undercurrent of wit. Not this book for someone looking for fast paced thrillers or great plots. A simple plot, woven together by humour and feelings, as is the style of Austen.

Regards

Sridhar