Somewhere in La Mancha, in a place whose name I do not care to remember, a gentleman lived not long ago, one of those who has a lance and ancient shield on a shelf and keeps a skinny nag and a greyhound for racing. (published 1605)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?
Good choice of opening lines Sharon.
ReplyDeleteYvonne.
Thanks, Yvonne!
DeleteI haven't read Don Quixote, but I recently saw it at a library sale. I picked it up but put it back down. I should've gotten it! Darn.
ReplyDeleteIt was required reading in college, but I like the stage production best.
DeleteI haven't read it unfortunately, but our local community theatre did an excellent performance of the musical "The Man of La Mancha." Definitely makes me want to read the book!
ReplyDeleteOh yes....I bet it was really good :)
DeleteWhat a great opening line. I always had this on my list to read since I love the musical so much. This is a great opening if I can say so again
ReplyDeleteThanks. The musical was wonderful.
DeleteI don't know why, but every time I read that line I imagine an old man in a tavern, glass of wine, and straw hat. Ha!
ReplyDeleteHa-ha. I think you may be right!
DeleteOh I love this - it's transported me into another world altogether. How wonderful that from so long ago, writers e.g. Shakespeare can evoke such strong imagery.
ReplyDeleteThanks Sharon ...
Oh...and I haven't begun to share Shakespeare yet. So many wonderful choices to pick! The list is endless.
ReplyDeleteI'd never before read the opening lines. Like Lori, I've seen The Man of La Mancha--and loved it.
ReplyDeleteI like this idea for a regular post! Sometimes I go to Amazon and start scrolling through books just to read their opening lines. :-)
That's so interesting, Teresa. Thanks for stopping by!
DeleteLovely opening line that has clearly held up over the centuries! You should check out the opening line of The Tale of Heike, from Japan. It is the most famous line in their literature, and it is gorgeous. :)
ReplyDeleteI will.....thanks for the tip :)
DeleteI can't believe I've never read this. It's on my TBR list.
ReplyDeleteOh....enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!
DeleteYou're the second blog I noticed with something about Don Quixote. Maybe this is a sign I should read the book.
ReplyDeleteHa-ha. I hope you do, Cindy. Thanks for stopping by.
ReplyDeleteI've never read Don Quijote, thought I sold hundreds of copies of his book - I work in a university bookshop ;-)
ReplyDeleteYou know, this is really a good opening. But then, even students say this book is fun.
That's funny. I always thought it'd be fun to work in a book store. Kind of like working in a candy store with lots of chocolate :)
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