"Mr. Utterson the lawyer was a man of a rugged countenance, that was never lighted by a smile; cold, scanty and embarrassed in discourse; backward in sentiment; lean, long, dusty, dreary, and yet somehow lovable." Published 1886I 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?
Ooh, I really like this opening line. It paints such a great visual of the character very quickly!
ReplyDeleteDoesn't it though. I love the adjectives he uses.
DeleteThere's a serious description!
ReplyDeleteNo kidding :)
DeleteAfter the opening lines, I was a bit surprised to find Mr. Utterson was "somehow lovable", weren't you? It certainly makes for a complex character. I love the classics, too, and am always surprised to find these authors of old did everything right, with no classes in writing. There's a reason they are classics. Have a great day.
ReplyDeleteThat is a cool contrast with 'lovable' at the end. I love what the old writers did with words.
DeleteI have never read this book so who "said" the opening line? If it is Dr. Jeckyll it shows how this character looks at the good in all people and sets up great beginning of what happens to this doomed man. I feel stupid that I don't know the beginning of this book.
ReplyDeleteDon't feel stupid, Birgit. I don't recall reading this book either!
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