September Recs

things I am loving this month

Reading 

I just finished Star Splitter by Matthew J. Kirby, a YA sci-fi thriller about a girl who arrives on a distant planet to conduct research with her parents, but when she gets there, she is alone and something terrible has happened on the ship in orbit. The story took some unexpected turns and asks deep questions about what defines life and identity. I gave it 4 out of 5 stars!

Watching

Some “vintage” Law and Order has been on the tube recently. There is something comforting about the same general pattern of the narratives, and each one is still unique enough to not be predictable. Because of my Jane Austen class, I’ve also been watching my share of Mansfield Park adaptations. So far, my favorite is the 1999 version. I realize that they take a few liberties with the story (making Fanny a writer and highlighting the Bertrams’ involvement in the slave trade more so than in the novel). However, I think the additions are logical choices to make based on the book and serve to draw out the themes. In the book, we see characters mistakenly paying attention to appearances and material wealth as opposed to virtue and goodness. In the film, Edmund comments “When did goodness cease to be attractive?” I’ve also read that some of the qualities given to Fanny in the movie—while not always successful—were inspired by Austen herself, even to the point of adding at least one quote from Austen’s juvenilia: “Run mad as often as you choose, but do not faint!”

I also think that the 2005 Pride and Prejudice movie couldn’t have happened without the 1999 Mansfield Park. The sweeping score, the moody scene in the rain, the unique perspective shots, and the breaking of the fourth wall all feel very fresh in comparison to other adaptations we’ve seen before this one. Let me know in the comments what you think!

Listening

When I’m not listening to Jane Austen on audio, I’m listening to an older Bear’s Den album called Red Earth & Pouring Rain. It’s the perfect sizzling driving music that is somehow both upbeat and relaxing. I enjoy the almost 80s style electric guitar riffs that create such a different sound from their other albums. And you can definitely sing along!

Writing

I’ve been using my early morning writing minutes to prep some material for a contest. Why is writing a synopsis so incredibly difficult?! I also received news that a short story of mine that was meant to be published next month will be postponed until next year, which is disappointing. But at least I have something to anticipate! (Just like autumn weather this year, apparently!)

An actual photo of me trying to write my synopsis.

Join the conversation

What are you reading/watching/listening to this month? What are your thoughts on the aforementioned Austen adaptations?