Reading Notes : Hans Christian Andersen, Part A

I was able to revisit some of my favorite stories from my childhood with this reading. The work of Hans Christian Andersen is so iconic and touching even now. It is really different reading these stories as an adult than as a child; what I took literally before is now so symbolic. I hadn't read the story of the little tin soldier in so long, and with it came a flood of memories.

One thing I really love about his writings is how visual they are. For kids, it helps immerse them in the world he is trying to make and really experience the story with the character. For adults, there is something kind of sad and wistful about it. His creativity brings the situations to life in a very enjoyable way. One way he does this is through the flow of the story; it read extremely well and is easy to follow. The narrative is super smooth and beautiful to read, which is a big plus. There is nothing 'hard' or difficult to read about it, and it isn't tedious or repetitive either. Every sentence is new and fresh, while blending seamlessly into the rest of the story.

Hans Christian Andersen is unapologetically creative and isn't afraid to make the impossible possible through his writing. Somehow, I felt his sincerity and on some level feel like I can understand his mindset when he was writing these. I really like The Little Match-Seller. It is supposed to be sad, but somehow he writes it in a way that it is so joyful and almost like a celebration as well. A release from suffering to a better place. The situation is sad but the end result it joyful. A true master at storytelling.

The Brave Tin Soldier

Hans Christian Andersen, Fairy Tales and Stories. Translated by H. P. Paull (1872). Web Source.

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