winter books and music
DECEMBER MUSIC PLAYLIST. (Yes, I've returned to Spotify). In the past, I've usually shared a song or two at the end of a blog post, and I may still do that, but I thought a big round-up of my monthly favs would be a cool thing to start doing. (This is an ongoing list)
MY WINTER BOOKS LIST: to get me across the holidays and into the new year.
The Unabridged Journals of Sylvia Plath—Sylvia Plath.
This is a thick book that won't be consumed in one go. I want to take my time with it, soak it in, in small doses. I've always been intrigued by the journals of writers, as their thought patterns are a lovely prelude to their published body of work. I love seeing her inner workings and wayward musings laid bare, a glimpse into her strange, brilliant mind.
The Lonely Stories—Edited by Natalie Eve Garrett.
If you're a regular reader of my blog, you know I tend to identify as a person who feels on the outskirts of life. A loner in a way. This book of essays speaks to feeling alone in life, whether in brief scattered moments, in the throws of significant life changes, or feeling unseen in general. Loneliness and solitude are a part of life yet rarely discussed, so finding these stories feels comforting and memorable.
Se Perdre—Annie Ernaux.
I'm brushing up on my French! This book is about love, longing, heartbreak, and being utterly consumed by another person. Eroticism and romance abound.
The Trouble With Happiness—Tove Ditlevsen.
These short stories speak of love and devastation and depict simple everyday lives in mid-century Copenhagen. Its overall theme leans melancholy.
Selected Poems—Sylvia Plath.
Can you tell I'm on a Sylvia Plath kick lately?
Ariel-Sylvia Plath.
Reading poetry, especially those as dense as these takes work for me. I only read one poem a day. I sit with it. I let it percolate in my mind. If I struggle with a piece, I'll look up its analysis to better understand its meaning.
Milk and Honey—Rupi Kaur.
These easily digestible pieces of poetry have become my favorite thing to read in bed at night. She inspires me to write my own poetry and more in general, even if it doesn't fit into any discernable genre.
Can you believe I got out of the house, walked around Chapters, and sat down with my sister, drinking a caramel latte?
How sweet is life when you can leave the sameness of your apartment behind, even if only for a brief afternoon. (Context: I broke my leg in September and am just now finally able to walk around, albeit slowly)