North and South

The first Elizabeth Gaskell novel I've read . . . inspired to read it after watching North and South. I loved the movie, I adore the book. The depth of the characters, the reality of their lives, the insight into seeing some grow and others languish. I very much admire Elizabeth's constant focus throughout the novel - despite the despairity and anguish there is hope. Hope of an eternal life and joy in reaching the point of receiving it. What I found interesting is also what I see in society today: that those who live lives of human comfort and luxury often become complacent and miss the purpose of their lives. To strive beyond that complacency takes a strong character, as evidenced by Margaret's character. However, living a life that forces one to put all of their focus and energy in striving for wordly possessions despite adversity and despair is not a guarantee of realizing one's true purpose, as evidenced by John's character. This novel was excellent, deep and thought provoking. Many will look at the "master vs. employee" and the "gentile vs. trade" threads throughout the novel and focus on class "warfare". However, it all comes back to the same focus: that we are all intertwined, here for the same purpose, striving for the same goal: some find that truth and others do not.

This is by far one of my new favorite reads. Granted, I read it after watching the BBC adaptation with Richard Armitage (yummy!) But this book will surely be one of my "Go to" books when I get bored.

Love this book! If you are a fan of Jane Austen's writing (like I am) then this is definitely a book to check out. I actually listened to it via Librivox Podcasts. Also love the BBC 2004 television version.