BarringtonLibrary Reads discussion

This thread is open to any and all discussion around Classics. If you'd like to comment about "The Left Hand of Darkness," please make sure to include the title in your comment. I've included some questions about Le Guin's book in a comment below.

What constitutes a classic? In general, a classic can be any work of fiction, nonfiction, etc. However, the work must be greater than 25 years old (1996 or older). Classics need time to embed into the culture and minds of readers and the public, which takes about a generation or so.

Which classics are you reading this month? Please include the title, author, and publication date. You can review the work or just talk about it. Here are some questions to get started.

1. Why did you select and read this book?
2. Why do you consider this book to be classic?
3. What would you say is the reason for this book's significance? Endurance? What does this book have to offer the reader?

The May/June theme is Classics. Let's read "The Left Hand of Darkness" by Ursula K. Le Guin. Leave your comments, first impressions below. Or, answer a few of the following questions to get started.

1. This story was revolutionary for 1968, the year of the moon landing, for its treatment of gender and sexuality. Do you think it remains revolutionary today?

2. Some critics question whether the androgynous nature of the Gethenians is central to the story or not. For some, the idea of androgyny exists independent from the story. Others find it essential. Do you agree with either of these assessments? Something in the middle?

3. The book has been described as the interweaving movements of two characters trying to understand each other and their cultures. Does either character understand the other at the end of the book? What, if anything do you understand about the characters at the end of the book?

Book have to offer reader, how to survive in a cold and
Icy climate, main understandning of book

A classic book is very old, like old china and heritage can be
Saved for future generations ,sustainabel heritage

Revolutionary writning style

I find androgny essential for the book

Some understandning of each other culture, no clear understandning, that is another book for the author

Kristina

LeGuin's novel was certainly revolutionary for 1969! I found her frank discussions around gender, society, sex, and relationships to be refreshing. I was heartened to see that she was awarded both the Nebula and Hugo awards for her effort. Her book is often cited for pioneering conversations around sexuality and gender. It's fascinating to read the deep dive into what defines a man or a woman on Winter/Gethen, especially from an Earther perspective. This point links to the second question, which I absolutely think androgyny is essential to the story. It defines the culture and the way of the world (as they know it). It's a natural part of each Gethenian's life.