Fiction Friday: 2001
I’ve sometimes wondered if 2001: A Space Odyssey was a test to ferret out pretentious film geeks. Anyone claiming to understand it would be nailed.
The Fair Elaine and I watched it a few years ago and just kind of sat there in a very “Umm…what?” kind of way when the film ended.
But, assured (by my esteemed colleague in pavement pounding) that the novel, by Arthur C. Clarke, made more sense, I picked it up at the Library Used Book Sale.
And it certainly made a ton more sense than the movie. Due to, you know, actual words being used. From the opening scene with the ape-men, and even to the end with the Star Child, the book beats the ever-living snot out of the movie, in terms of sense-making.
One other reason I picked up this book was that, well, next year is 2010, and I felt I should maybe read that book. So I had to read the first volume first. Now I’m kind of regretting that I didn’t pick up the whole series when I had the chance (at the book sale).
(I also want to see the 2010 movie.)
I do have to admit that the ending of the book is still somewhat confusing, but it’s a far cry from the brain twister of the film.
If you’ve seen the film, you’ll probably enjoy the book more. I know, right? That never happens! If you haven’t seen it, I’d actually suggest reading the book first, then viewing the movie through its lens.
I’ve got another review queued up for later today, so check back if you’re interested in reading my impressions of Brighty of the Grand Canyon.
November 27th, 2009 - 11:39
During our run, we debated what came first, the book or the film. According to wikipedia, they were developed concurrenty.
November 27th, 2009 - 11:45
I had a similar reaction to the movie when my husband insisted we watch it about 20 years ago. You do make me wonder about the book though.
Btw, I gave you an award.
November 27th, 2009 - 16:01
I just finished 3001 The Final Odyssey. I wouldn’t recommend it. I just hate books that simply stop with no resolution! Why bother to write a book that obviously needs a sequel unless you write the sequel (and Sir Arthur seems to be too dead to write it now)? It seemed to just be a diatribe against the idea of God (or those who are theists)(being dead he will have a different opinion now). I still recommend Childhood’s End. Maybe you will have a better opinion of it.
Dad
November 27th, 2009 - 22:35
I’ve long suspected that the best place to stop in a series is after the first one, though Speaker for the Dead and The Black Cauldron are Book Twos that exceeded their prequels. Hmmm…
I’ll look at reading Childhood’s End early next year. (Just placed a request due to activate the first of the year.)