"On a January evening of the early seventies, Christine Nilsson was
singing in Faust at the Academy of Music in New York. Though there was already talk of the erection, in remote metropolitan distances "above the Forties," of a new Opera House which should compete in costliness and splendour with those of the great European capitals, the world of fashion was still content to reassemble every winter in the shabby red and gold boxes of the sociable old Academy."
(Published 1920)
I love the classics and plan to share some "opening lines" over the coming months. Comment if you like, or read for inspiration. Writing styles were different then, but were they really?
Hmmm...maybe it is late and my brain is not functioning but this one didn't grab me even though I know of the book (hadn't read it) and film
ReplyDeleteNot my favorite either. Never did read this novel, but it's considered a classic.
ReplyDeleteThis is the kind of beginning where you are prepared to settle back and slowly be enveloped in a good story. Today's novels have to grab your attention fast and hold on because there is so much techie competition out there. I haven't read the novel either but heard about it growing up as a must read novel.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Catherine. I've never minded slow beginnings, but I've removed most in my novel for the reasons you mention. I wish it were different. I have good 'reading memories' and most were with the classics, sitting in front of a warm fireplace.
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