Reading the Classics

I have always been a fairly avid reader and take my choice of books somewhat seriously.  The need to finish any book I start is obsessive and I have been working through a kind of 12 step program to eliminate this obsession.  It's not working very well, so it's kind of important that I choose good books.  Otherwise they pile up on my night stand half read, waiting to be finished or tossed.

Recently, I have had the desire to read classics I missed in my high school and college years. I have no interest in rereading books, although I am sure I would have a very different perspective than I did when I read say "The Fountainhead".  I picked up "Sea Wolf" by Jack London.  Truth be told, my son is reading it and liking it so I thought I would give it a try.

How did I miss this book?  It is fantastic.  The pace, the vocabulary, and especially the dialogue is compelling and probably why it is a classic. I would never have picked it by reading the back cover or knowing the author.  Seems the interaction between a sea captain and his rescued gentleman, would not interest me.  I was wrong.  Not only is this book a thought provoking mechanism, it is leading me to pick up philosophy reviews.

I think all book genres have their purposes; to entertain, educate, or enlighten.  I enjoy the mind candy once in a awhile but completely understand why we all, including our kids, should also be reading certain books.  They can change your thought process and lead you to search out new ideas.  Frankly to allow you to just think.  It's a shame this realization is just hitting me midlife.