Requesting Tips for Studying Novels

Hi guys,

We all became writers because of plenty of exposure to books by authors we grew to love and even emulate. It's a beautiful thing! I have learnt most of what I know today by simply reading a lot, and writing (hopefully) a lot too. Going forward, I want to read purposefully, knowing that I want to learn skills from what I read, so that I can write gooder.

What methods can you share for critical reading? Note taking? Do you focus on prose or story structure? Characters or overarching themes? If you are currently studying literature, all the better, let me know how your teacher instructs you through the novels. No ideas are too small!

Thaaaanks

When I read novels I simply just read them. Only if they amuse me I would take a little step further to discuss my favourite parts with the some who have read it. To be honest, you shouldn't read everything and anything just to critically shred them or praise them. Of course there are always somethings to learn from everything and anything, but you shouldn't read just for the sake of it. Or else you'll forget to enjoy the fun in "just" reading a book.

All the novels are not thought provoking or inspiring. And you won't get inspired if you are searching for an inspiration. It all just has to happen. Okay, I'm going to stop being cynical.

And as of for sharpening your skills I'd recommend you to go 1900's. They give you a sneek peek of both the eras. The anicent and the modern. Virginia Woolf is one of the best. c: