"The Vicar of Wakefield" and other small notes.

     Oliver Goldsmith's work entitled The Vicar of Wakefield might be my favorite we have read thus far. Goldsmith starts by describing a fairly wealthy, kind, and happy family consisting of two loving parents and six children. The family suddenly become poor, moving to a smaller place with an..unusual landlord. The family faces an absurd number of challenges throughout their time in poverty. This novel is well-written and engaging, keeping the reader quite involved with the story line. However, this is not why this is my favorite for this class thus far. 

    The Vicar of Wakefield gives me major Jane Austen vibes. The writing, minus Austen's classic personal intrusions in the plot, reminds me very much of some of Austen's classic novels. For example, the themes and plot have major similarities. A family faces misfortune, find a way to navigate through life's obstacles, and overall becomes successful in the end. A cliché happy ending, if you will. 

    For numerous reasons, comparing Goldsmith to Austen probably should not happen. However, this is my blog and I shall do as I dang well please. I think I like Goldsmith because he's Irish. Being Irish myself, it's always nice to like those who you can relate to. He has written many novels, but the ones that sound most interesting to me are as follows: She Stoops to Conquer, The Traveler, and The Beauties of English Poesy. Due to this novel we are currently dissecting in class, I feel as if I might just try to read some of his other works. Also relating back to my girl Jane Austen, I enjoyed reading her classics after a class with Dr. BReed. This is a short blog, but I think  my main point here is that there is a vast, immeasurable number of things that are out there to be enjoyed. It took me a long time (more than I care to admit) to realize that it is never too late to do what you enjoy. You can find a new hobby at literally any time. You can find new interests and ideals and values at any point in your life. You do not need to like something just because others do. Therefore, when you find an author you like, read them. When you find an artist you like, stare at their artwork until your eyes are sore with desire. Listen to your favorite songs at an extreme volume unapologetically. There is quite literally nothing but yourself stopping you.