Literary Letter #2

Bookish longings and nostalgic feels

Dear Friend,

This week, I’ve been feeling a bit lonely. A big project I’ve been working on has been put on hold, and I was just in a funk. But have no fear, I always know what will cheer me up—books!

I read the most delightful little gem of a book, 84 Charing Cross Road, in an afternoon, and it took my doldrums right away (and also made me shed a few tears too).

I also read a heartbreaking love story called The Book Swap. It’s described as “A love letter to books and reading.” Think of it as You’ve Got Mail, but they are exchanging classics that they’ve annotated and left in a little free library. I know you’re going to want to read it, so I’ve already set it aside to bring to you next time I visit.

Both books got me thinking about my reading habits. I read an article the other week (if I can find it in my pile of old newspapers, I’ll cut it out and attach it here) about “proper reading.” It sure has been occupying a lot of my headspace. What even is proper reading? Is there a proper way to read? Am I missing out on something by simply reading for entertainment?

I don’t have the answers to solve the meaning of life through reading, but I did think it might be time to connect with other readers and explore beyond my cozy reading circle.

You’ve been so supportive of my managing the wonderful community of readers and Jane Austen fans, but as much as I love it, sometimes I’d like to be in the backseat instead of driving.

I can already hear you asking, “Melissa, how in the world are you going to do that?” Well, I’ll tell you.

First, I put out a call asking if any readers would like to join me in reading The Secret History for the first time. I’m a bit ashamed to admit I’ve never read what appears to be a cult classic of a book.

You’ll never guess what happened! A delightful librarian replied and said she’s been meaning to read it too and would like to read it with me. Then, we discovered we live within a few hours of each other! I’m always telling you, this world is getting smaller and smaller with all this technology.

I’m happy to report we start reading together in a few weeks. I’ll be sure to include my thoughts in an upcoming letter so you can read them for yourself. Unless, of course, you’ve already read it—that would be so typical of you!

Next, I went on a hunt to find someone to group-read some classics with. Do you remember I told you the other week that I found a delightful used copy of The Haunting of Hill House, but I’ve been too terrified to read it? Not anymore! I’m going to be brave (at least, I say that now) and read it with friends.

If you want to join, look up

Henry Eliot

, and you can be terrified with me.

I have so much more to say, but it will have to wait until my next letter. However, I do need to let you know it’s still terribly hot here (because is it even a real letter if one doesn’t complain about the weather?). My neighbor’s flowers are still blooming in mid-September while the trees are half-turned. What sort of insanity is this year’s fall?

Do let me know what you’ve been up to. You know I live for a letter back!

Happy reading,
Melissa

This series of letter is my own exploration of the days when I was in college and wrote letters back and forth to my grandparents. I send them to you to connect as a creative and a reader. I write them as if I am corresponding with each of you personally. Please know that I am in all earnestness delighted for you to message me back.

“That's for me. I am a great lover of 'I was there' books.”
― Helene Hanff, 84, Charing Cross Road

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