Ulysses by James Joyce: Great Books Explained

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  • čas přidán 12. 10. 2023
  • Please consider supporting this channel on Patreon, thanks! www.patreon.com/user?u=53686503
    or if you prefer a one-off donation - www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted...
    This video is dedicated to my great friends, and Joyce aficionado's Jean and Derry O'Sullivan.
    Even before James Joyce’s Ulysses was published it was causing trouble. Short excerpts appeared in a review magazine, and the US postal service claiming it was pornography refused to deliver the magazines and then burnt all the copies.
    Any publisher that thought about publishing Ulysses had to weigh up the possibility of being prosecuted for obscenity against the potential of bringing a masterpiece into the world. Most publishers wouldn’t touch it, but Sylvia Beach, owner of the Shakespeare and Co. bookshop in Paris, decided the risk was worth taking, and in 1922 Ulysses was published in Paris.
    It is famously hard to read, and many never finish it, but the novel would go on to triumph over the criticism and censorship, to become one of the most highly regarded works of art in the 20th century.
    Nothing much happens in Ulysses, two men wander around Dublin, and a woman lies in bed thinking, that’s it! But it is the story telling, the language and the humour that makes it a work of genius.
    Subscribe and click the bell icon to be notified! czcams.com/channels/ePD.html...
    I would like to thank all my Patreon supporters, in particular Adriana Nemet, Alan Stewart, Alexander Velser, Alyssa Phillips, Anja Zeutschel, Bria Nicole Art, David Asabreu, Christa Sawyer, Eric Mann, Erique K, Griffin Evans, Hugo Moita, Jemma Theivendran, Julio Cardenas, Karim Hopper, Kibibi Shaw, Louise Tait, Monte St Johns, New Curiosity, Paul Ark, Paul Waterman, Pavel Juszczyk, Sean Welgemoed, Stephen Beresford, Tanya Moore, Theresa Garfink, Toni Ko, Tyler Wittreich and Will Dew's-Power.
    "What a brilliant series this is" - Stephen Fry on Twitter
    SUBTITLES
    I input the English subtitles myself but I rely on volunteers to do subtitles for other languages and I really appreciate it - just contact me at jamespayne33@hotmail.com
    Spanish Subtitles by Alma Perdomo (gracias!)
    CREDITS
    Opening Animation and Title Sequence by Brian Adsit (instagram brian_vfx?... and Behance www.behance.com/badsit88)
    Sound Mix by Oscar Sidoff Rydelius (Thank you!)
    ACTORS
    Aonghus Weber @cityactors
    Helen Sheehan
    "Theme" music: JS Bach “Sonata for violin solo No.1 in G Minor”
    Other - Stravinsky The Rite of Spring
    All the videos, songs, images, and graphics used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel do not claim any right over them.
    Clip of Dublin: Dermot O'Brien
    Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.

Komentáře • 1,3K

  • @charlawillson5654
    @charlawillson5654 Před 2 měsíci +14

    My father, a WWII surgeon, a genius in his own right, memorized this. Unbelievable.

  • @andreselectrico
    @andreselectrico Před 7 měsíci +64

    I read the book when I was very young. Now, as a still-young but already seasoned middle-aged person :), I think I have to read it again. It must be a different experience when you read this work at this stage of your life, a point when you have already abandoned any hope for immortality, have a long relationship behind you, have children to take care of, and know that having them means, at the same time, happiness and entering the world of those who have a lot to lose. You also know, for certain, that you will have to make concessions, that you won't be a hero, and that you have nothing under control. I have to read this great work again.
    This is a great channel. Please do more content like this. The world needs it.

    • @javelinpix
      @javelinpix Před 3 měsíci +3

      So true and thoughtful. I'm 72 and can vouch.

    • @Uluc-cg4tm
      @Uluc-cg4tm Před 3 měsíci +2

      All that we see or seem is but a dream within a dream...

  • @greatbooksexplained371
    @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +120

    It is important for a new channel that you please leave a comment (what book are you reading now? What is your favourite book etc), as it helps promote the channel! I REALLY appreciate your continued support - and WECOME to Great Books Explained!

    • @landontalkington230
      @landontalkington230 Před 8 měsíci +4

      Reading Frankenstein by Mary Shelley for the first time.

    • @GreatArtExplained
      @GreatArtExplained Před 8 měsíci +7

      @@landontalkington230 Frankenstein is being researched now!

    • @stevej9058
      @stevej9058 Před 8 měsíci +2

      The Great Gatsby. In my opinion, it is the most beautifully written work of literature. Like Joyce said, it is isn't what was written, but how.

    • @khyrusjosersantos9456
      @khyrusjosersantos9456 Před 8 měsíci +7

      Try some Dostoevsky. Or Kafka.
      Maybe do The Little Prince.
      Either way, I will be following this channel.

    • @SooKim119
      @SooKim119 Před 7 měsíci +4

      As a lover of books and art history I am so hyped!
      Books id love to see a video on: (just a whole list of my favourites 😭 classics and non-classics)
      Never let me go - by Kazuo Ishiguro
      Norwegian Wood - Haruki Murakami
      The Picture of Dorian Gray - Oscar Wilde
      The Handmaid’s Tale - Margaret Atwood
      The Heart’s Invisible Furies - John Boyne
      The Book Thief - Markus Zusak
      Catcher in the Rye - JD Salinger
      The Odyssey - Homer
      Giovanni’s Room - James Baldwin
      The Metamorphosis - Franz Kafka
      Dune - Frank Herbert
      I’m currently slaving through Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre.

  • @bigredlittlered2476
    @bigredlittlered2476 Před 8 měsíci +209

    This was the hardest to read book I ever picked up. The changing writing styles was difficult to adjust to. Thank you James for making the book more understandable.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +9

      Glad it was helpful!

    • @stretmediq
      @stretmediq Před 7 měsíci +8

      Reading Absolam Absolam by William Faulkner prior made Ulysses easier for me but it was still challenging

    • @geargeekpdx3566
      @geargeekpdx3566 Před 6 měsíci +4

      Infinite Jest is harder

    • @danielg.w5733
      @danielg.w5733 Před 6 měsíci +4

      Try Finnegans Wake

    • @1chicaa.
      @1chicaa. Před 5 měsíci +3

      Please please do crime and punishment by Dostyoesky

  • @seriouslywhatever1031
    @seriouslywhatever1031 Před 8 měsíci +142

    This is a book I thought I would never want to read but now I do. Your channels are so life enriching.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +10

      Thanks!

    • @vanjaw1146
      @vanjaw1146 Před 7 měsíci +4

      for me it is the opposite, I was planning to read it but now I realize that this book is overrated

    • @zlatan_2197
      @zlatan_2197 Před 7 měsíci +7

      @@vanjaw1146 You need to read it to experience it.

    • @reinerdesouza9438
      @reinerdesouza9438 Před 5 měsíci

      I doubt you will finish it. I will be surprised if you go past the half way mark.

    • @jiggersotoole7823
      @jiggersotoole7823 Před 3 dny

      I read it twice

  • @fancynancymacy
    @fancynancymacy Před 6 měsíci +17

    I love the way, James Joyce, writes I love the stream of consciousness. I loved it in high school. I love it today.

    • @vincentzevecke4578
      @vincentzevecke4578 Před 28 dny +2

      William Faulkner is also a stream of consciousness writer too

  • @817exo
    @817exo Před 8 měsíci +88

    I'm really into art and literature so these two channels are just perfect! Will try to support you in the future! ❤

  • @Mrpallekuling
    @Mrpallekuling Před 3 měsíci +24

    I read this book every 10 years. I've read it five times so far, and I hope to accomplish at least one more before it's time to say goodbye

    • @nicholacousins8563
      @nicholacousins8563 Před 25 dny +2

      I make my children read Animal farm an 1984 every 5 years 😅

    • @Mrpallekuling
      @Mrpallekuling Před 24 dny

      @@nicholacousins8563 That sounds good!

    • @annwright1858
      @annwright1858 Před 11 dny

      Why?

    • @Mrpallekuling
      @Mrpallekuling Před 11 dny

      @@annwright1858 Because each time I read it, I interpret the story a bit differently because my life experience is different. I read it first when I was 18 and lived with my parents. At 28, I had an education and started to work. At 38, I was married and had a daughter. At 48, I worked in France. At 58, I was in Switzerland, and now I'm back in Denmark, retired. So, my perspective has changed.

    • @annwright1858
      @annwright1858 Před 9 dny

      Thank you for your reply and I can understand where you are coming from. For me, there are so many books out there, I want to try and read as many of them as possible and haven’t got time for repeats! I am in my seventies, thankfully still healthy. We are forever changing though so I take your point.

  • @nikkivenable73
    @nikkivenable73 Před 8 měsíci +72

    You have no idea how much i loved this. I am an avid reader and have been my whole life and listening to smart people discuss the classics, well, is there anything better?

    • @dgarzaart2000
      @dgarzaart2000 Před 6 měsíci +4

      The only thing better than reading a classic is rereading a classic. You may quote me.

    • @doncahooti
      @doncahooti Před 6 měsíci +1

      better to live a classic

    • @nikkivenable73
      @nikkivenable73 Před 6 měsíci +2

      @@dgarzaart2000 oooh, I love this!!!!

  • @BrandonBurrell-lr6yy
    @BrandonBurrell-lr6yy Před 6 měsíci +17

    I'm reading Ulysses right now. Strange book. This talk is bringing clarity. Thank you.

  • @kurtissluss2010
    @kurtissluss2010 Před 8 měsíci +69

    Thanks for all your hard work. I’ve adored the topics and evolution of this channel. It’s exactly what the world needs.

  • @user-iy3jh8wf1s
    @user-iy3jh8wf1s Před 6 měsíci +40

    It's a difficult book to read, but it's a terrific book to listen to. It really is musical. For anyone interested, try the BBC's James Joyce collection.

    • @bobikdylan
      @bobikdylan Před 6 měsíci +1

      Naxos has it on 22 CDs. I bought it about twenty years ago and listen to it on my daily commute once a year. It is complete, unabridged, and very good.

    • @Fibsboro
      @Fibsboro Před 5 měsíci +2

      The Irish national TV network did a superb version that is available for free

    • @NancyWaugh-dj3yv
      @NancyWaugh-dj3yv Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thanks for the suggestion about listening to it. It’s worth a shot!

    • @jimsherman6262
      @jimsherman6262 Před 16 dny

      Agreed . Listen first to fall in love and read annotated version to better understand. John Lee's performance on the audiobook is masterful

  • @puffin51
    @puffin51 Před 6 měsíci +413

    I really do wish that I could see what you and many others see in "Ulysses". I read it in ten days of hard graft as an undergrad, because I had to, and hated it. Twenty years later I tried again, and it was the same. The strongest impressions I received were of the author's freezing contempt for his characters, and for humanity generally, combined with his overpowering need to congratulate himself on his cleverness, knowledge and sensibilities. I must be wrong about that. Many good judges tell me so. The antipathy seems to be visceral - there are parts of "Ulysses" that make me physically nauseous. But whatever the cause is, I won't open a work by Joyce, ever again. It's no use telling me that "Dubliners", or "Portrait" is much easier. After my experience, all I'd like to do with Joyce is to get my hands around his neck - which, given that he's been dead these eighty years, is foolish or worse. Still, there it is.

    • @Mr.SLovesTheSacredHeartofJesus
      @Mr.SLovesTheSacredHeartofJesus Před 6 měsíci +41

      I fully agree.

    • @davesblasting7457
      @davesblasting7457 Před 6 měsíci +12

      What about Samuel Beckett ? Would you try him?

    • @puffin51
      @puffin51 Před 6 měsíci

      @@davesblasting7457 I have tried him. I am glad to say that, not having been born over a grave, I am unqualified to appreciate the glories of Beckett's works, despite the satisfaction and peace that they brought him, which is so evident in his face.

    • @merrim7765
      @merrim7765 Před 6 měsíci +56

      In my experience, it's a "thing" that some (mostly snobs) academics think they need to find appealing to find approval of their colleagues and that they "get it". Joyce was probably a narcissist, mentally ill, and had a disgusting habit of "undressing," manipulating for his own writing exercise, and criticizing everyone from his perch on the Director's chair. His daughter was committed and no wonder. The biography, Nora, was good and explains a great deal.

    • @puffin51
      @puffin51 Před 6 měsíci +40

      @@merrim7765 I don't hold his daughter's schizophrenia against him, absent real evidence that he caused it, of which there is none. I do decry the conscious artifice and self-congratulation that I find in "Ulysses". In chapter 14, "The Oxen of the Sun", the language recapitulates the development of English prose, starting before Chaucer and moving through Spencerian and Shakespearian forms to approach modern English. Why? What purpose is served? It only foregrounds the prose itself, which is to say, the writer, his delight in what he takes to be his own cleverness, his reading, his scholarship. It's nothing but egotism, and I can't for the life of me see why anybody would commend it.

  • @user-KG71
    @user-KG71 Před 7 měsíci +19

    I am excited for this new series! I read Ulysses for the first time in High School, and hated it. But my English teacher told me to please reread it later on. I’m So glad that I have ❤ I found that once I had a truly open mind that this masterpiece became much more enjoyable.
    I also have written notes each time (over 30 years), and go back occasionally to see my growth as a reader- and as a Human.

  • @gradient-hj
    @gradient-hj Před 8 měsíci +136

    So happy you decided to create this channel on top of the great art channel. Can’t wait to watch it!

  • @markberman6708
    @markberman6708 Před 6 měsíci +15

    I'm saddened by having read so many books and forgotten so much until a title or comment comes up. Too much life and possibly a bit too much bumping around has disorganized the library in my head. Helps a lot to see so many great works come up and remember them and fit them back on the shelves of the mind.

  • @greatbooksexplained371
    @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +5

    What is a book YOU would like me to consider for Great Books Explained?

    • @lolobolly
      @lolobolly Před 8 měsíci +2

      Madam Bovary

    • @heociel
      @heociel Před 8 měsíci +2

      Le Petit Prince

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +2

      One of my favourite books of ALL time! @@heociel

    • @kushmon9992
      @kushmon9992 Před 8 měsíci +3

      I know many people will pick older, legendary books and authors. But the Shining would be my pick. Maybe the most terrifying work of art ever.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +1

      Shining is on my list! @@kushmon9992

  • @ianlipton
    @ianlipton Před 6 měsíci +12

    You've done it again, James. Opened my eyes to more wonderful things.

  • @pameladaley955
    @pameladaley955 Před 7 měsíci +10

    Thank you so much for this! James Joyce: the master monster of English literature! Every word a treasure - and you have made Ulysses understandable. I can't wait to see what you do next - and this a perfect mate to your other channel.

  • @christianmasters5374
    @christianmasters5374 Před 8 měsíci +56

    Using the rite of spring periodically was a genius move! In terms of its critical reception, it's almost like the ballet/symphony version of Ulysses. Both works were lambasted when they first appeared and were the subjects of massive public outcry but a small few groups of people then and many more now were and are able to see them for the innovative masterpieces they are. Great work!

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +19

      Thanks for noticing - I spend a lot of time getting appropriate music!

    • @wilhelmina8843
      @wilhelmina8843 Před 7 měsíci +7

      @christanmaster5374: I’m glad you were able to point out how thoughtful the music choice is.

    • @davol2449
      @davol2449 Před 4 měsíci +1

      big difference is "The Rite of Spring"" was never censored. you couldn't own a copy in the US until almost ten years after it was published.

    • @bradenoberson
      @bradenoberson Před měsícem

      Great use of music indeed. What is the last musical peice? With the choir? It's very nice.

  • @Jack_Callcott_AU
    @Jack_Callcott_AU Před 7 měsíci +10

    The soliloquy of Molly Bloom impressed me greatly. I have never read the whole book from beginning to end, but you said that one could "wander through Ulysses" maybe I have done that.
    I read " A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man" when I was a teenager, and I enjoyed it like hell. The book gave me the idea that I should be writer. "Dubliners" is also a great collection of stories. 📚🍀

  • @mainstreamintoxicated6021
    @mainstreamintoxicated6021 Před 8 měsíci +17

    I love Joyce, a true master. Took language to such a level that all that was left was Beckett. Joyce’s successor and Void.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +2

      Great comment thanks 🙏

    • @lesleyjohnson8488
      @lesleyjohnson8488 Před 7 měsíci +1

      Absolutely agree! Fantastic appraisal. I felt that Melville was his ancestor in this regard, as was the fertile mind of the Bard himself …

    • @georgewilkie3580
      @georgewilkie3580 Před 6 měsíci

      LOL!... AGAIN, LOL!

    • @reinerdesouza9438
      @reinerdesouza9438 Před 5 měsíci +2

      What is language if not communication? Ulysses does not communicate ...... just a diarrhea of words.

    • @RuminatingWizard
      @RuminatingWizard Před 3 měsíci +1

      Steinbeck was twice the writer with 1/50th the words.

  • @malwinatritt2499
    @malwinatritt2499 Před 8 měsíci +8

    OMG, I can't wait. I think this might be the best channel on youtube! ❤️

  • @wain609
    @wain609 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Fixing drywall here in Jersey... Tuned in and taking notes!!

  • @gustavofreitas7410
    @gustavofreitas7410 Před 7 měsíci +4

    We all have to thank you for your amazing, spectacular work of spreading knowledge in a so captivating and riveting way. I barely can imagine how search and readings you do in order to create such insightful videos. Seriously, thank you so much, you've made me a better person and I think the world should have more humans like you!

  • @aranoguera8945
    @aranoguera8945 Před 8 měsíci +17

    I read Dubliners last year. I'm looking forward to reading Ulysses.

    • @SPRVLN27
      @SPRVLN27 Před 4 měsíci

      I will let you know, they're quite different.

  • @yonathanasefaw9001
    @yonathanasefaw9001 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I learned something today.

  • @jenniferw392
    @jenniferw392 Před 7 měsíci +2

    I am ecstatic that you have expanded. I am a casual appreciator of art and literature, and you have shared so much knowledge and joy with me through your videos. I look forward to more to come!

  • @amandahaynes2194
    @amandahaynes2194 Před 8 měsíci +9

    This gave me such a better understanding of an overwhelming work. Thank you!

  • @saluki601
    @saluki601 Před 8 měsíci +13

    Trying to get myself to read crime and punishment at the moment. Super excited for the new channel!

    • @apollonia6656
      @apollonia6656 Před 2 měsíci

      @saluki,
      I read all of Dostoyevsky 's novels bar one: "The Idiot", but it is on my TBR so looking forward to it.
      Here is a question (sorry for digressing): for those who have read The Brothers Karamasov.; why do you think Zosima's body leaves such an awful smell ? As a medic, I understand putrifaction/heat etc , but a lot is made of stench. Do you think there is a hint regarding his "saintly character vs his actual one ? Well, the Devil leaves a stench wherever he goes so..... 🤔

  • @jwillington6625
    @jwillington6625 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Love your expansion to exploring books! Making artworks accessible, and divulging their secrets through your own brand of storytelling, research and editing is valuable work. Big thanks!

    • @fancynancymacy
      @fancynancymacy Před 6 měsíci

      Lifelong learner here now I’m 83 but still learning

  • @mariwittenbreer6865
    @mariwittenbreer6865 Před 4 měsíci +1

    So impressive how you distill much of this heavy tome's most important tropes and Joyce's life in such a short space. Thank you so much.

  • @ColtDouglasMusic
    @ColtDouglasMusic Před 8 měsíci +21

    I am so ready for this!

  • @evachocolounge2302
    @evachocolounge2302 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Congratulations, James! I'm following your journey almost since your first video with @greatartexplained. Keep it coming- I'm so excited about it!

  • @jodiehunter4505
    @jodiehunter4505 Před 8 měsíci +9

    Brilliant! Thanks for bringing great literature back to life!

  • @chilpabarajasivaneduardo841
    @chilpabarajasivaneduardo841 Před 8 měsíci +19

    Your content is a delight! Thank you for the dedication you put into it 💚

  • @Mindywright27
    @Mindywright27 Před 8 měsíci +8

    Fantastic! I thoroughly enjoyed this episode and am excited to return for more! Congratulations 🎉🍾

  • @followthatstargirl824
    @followthatstargirl824 Před 8 měsíci +4

    Great one, James! Congratulations on your new channel! 😊

  • @adamgharmonica4659
    @adamgharmonica4659 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Outstanding clear engaging introduction to this seminal novel …inspiring me to go and reread Ulysses again after more than 4 decades… many many thanks.
    PS Praise also to the editor who assembled the wonderfully apt sequences of visuals of real content and quality

  • @andohlea
    @andohlea Před 8 měsíci +6

    Not sure if it’s a preview but excited about the books you focused on in the intro! Great work yet again! 🙏

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +2

      Alice is next!

    • @andohlea
      @andohlea Před 8 měsíci +1

      @@greatbooksexplained371 yoooohoooo! 🐇😵‍💫🫖🐭🤪🎩😸🐛🌹♥️…in no particular order 😄

  • @nuritardif563
    @nuritardif563 Před 8 měsíci +17

    Thank you so much for this video. In a wonderful synchronicity I just finished reading this book about a week ago and absolutely loved it's Can't wait for your next video! Maybe you can do one on Moby-Dick, my all time favorite book.

  • @cbsproperty
    @cbsproperty Před 7 měsíci +1

    What a way to start another SUPERB channel!!!, mighty Ulisses . . . and the production! as with Great Art Explained, you are impeccably perfect in your analysis and synthesis. Humble thanks, another way of delivering your absolute talent for teaching and communication. Sincerely, Esperanza, a mexican in Canada

  • @shienshienshien
    @shienshienshien Před 7 měsíci +1

    Thank you so much for creating this channel, on top of your art-analysis one! Truly appreciate your hard work James!

  • @loganfinn4056
    @loganfinn4056 Před 8 měsíci +19

    So excited for the new channel! I’d love to see a video on Oscar Wilde eventually

  • @jmcg6189
    @jmcg6189 Před 7 měsíci +4

    Good job! I read it probably 15 years ago with a group from the local library. Someone from Northwestern University (local school) gave an introductory lecture. And I had a friend from the office do it with me. That way, whenever either one of us flagged and was ready to drop out, the other was there to encourage them. Possibly one of the few books that can benefit from having a reading buddy. It was a great book.

  • @lifeandnostalgia
    @lifeandnostalgia Před 8 měsíci +1

    Was thrilled when you announced the channel and this was a brilliant first entry. Thank you for everything you do, as always!
    (Can't wait to read Ulysses now, currently reading, Bulgakov's 'The Master and Margarita.' would love a video on that book too!)

  • @karenmills5084
    @karenmills5084 Před 18 dny +1

    So many years ago I was supposed to read this for a college lit course, and I tried. I tried skimming here and there and failed again. In my 30s I tried again. It still gave me a headache, so I decided that having read “Portait…” and The Dead, I didn’t need to try any more James Joyce. There are many Irish writers I enjoy reading so I do not miss this one.

  • @riggers1977
    @riggers1977 Před 7 měsíci +3

    The greatest novel of the 20th century & my personal favourite of all time. Until I tripped over Joyce & Ulysses I never realised that people could do such beautiful & profound things with language. The wandering, the poetry & the commentary all tightened up into a perfect package of ordinary nothingness. It’s just humanity laid bare & it’s fucking amazing. Ulysses is the only book I own which is a genuine first edition & I treasure it. Thank you so much for making this video James!👏👏

  • @MariaVosa
    @MariaVosa Před 8 měsíci +6

    Wonderful to see you branch out into literature as well. Great topic for the first video, and great companion piece to your recent video on Magritte!

  • @juniorjames7076
    @juniorjames7076 Před 7 měsíci

    First time I ever subscribed to a new channel, sight unseen, without even listening to a minute. If its associated with Great Arts Explained, that's more than enough for me.

  • @margotscheltema2870
    @margotscheltema2870 Před 2 měsíci

    What a wonderful introduction to a book - with music, images and narration all combined to deepen the experience. Thank you for this brilliant multimedia synopsis.

  • @adamfleischman8080
    @adamfleischman8080 Před 8 měsíci +5

    I love Frankenstein, Candide, a Christmas Carol and The Trial.

  • @Lo_1988
    @Lo_1988 Před 8 měsíci +5

    This is my favorite channel 🤓

  • @marthasolomon7997
    @marthasolomon7997 Před 7 měsíci

    I had never been into art but your channel enriched my life and knowledge more than o could ever think of ..and now you are doing books aka my life source. ..paint me obsessed!

  • @nathnieloleary502
    @nathnieloleary502 Před 7 měsíci

    Thank you for starting this channel. That was a very informative and digestible way to present such a complex book.🤩

  • @kristina7296
    @kristina7296 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Yessss!! It really is the best channel on CZcams

  • @JoaoPedro-xy3lo
    @JoaoPedro-xy3lo Před 8 měsíci +8

    Please make a video about Franz Kafka 's The Castle 😅❤

  • @nekonesto5601
    @nekonesto5601 Před 8 měsíci +2

    Yay! First video on the channel! I look forward to all the future ones and wish you a lot of success!

  • @nadfowler4171
    @nadfowler4171 Před 3 měsíci +1

    I’m so sad to just be discovering this channel as I’ve been a follower of your other art channel since you started. I used to be an avid reader, but busy mom life kind of stole that away from me. I’m currently reading Fifth Business, a Canadian classic alongside my son, who is studying it in his grade 12 English. I loved it the first time I read it but couldn’t recall at all what it was about so I decided to try it reading it again. I’m dedicating this year to go back to one of my first loves, reading.

  • @valiantabello
    @valiantabello Před 8 měsíci +34

    I dislike Joyce's works very much but this video definitely taught me a lot. I am currently reading The Brothers Karamasov

    • @r.e.t.8656
      @r.e.t.8656 Před 7 měsíci +1

      Amazing! I’m thank you for all you do ❤

    • @redtobertshateshandles
      @redtobertshateshandles Před 7 měsíci

      The BK. Worlds most boring book.

    • @benjaminroe311ify
      @benjaminroe311ify Před 7 měsíci

      @@redtobertshateshandles well its a character study mostly and I find it quite interesting.

  • @streetlegal008
    @streetlegal008 Před 6 měsíci +47

    Joyce started experimenting with 'magic mushrooms' just before he began to write Ulysses. I think this explains a lot. A similar thing happened to The Beatles in the mid 1960s.

    • @apollonia6656
      @apollonia6656 Před 6 měsíci +2

      Well,well,well ! That does explain a !it 😅
      Sad that it is considered as literature by many ! 🤔

    • @streetlegal008
      @streetlegal008 Před 6 měsíci +3

      It is merely a conjecture of course, but something must have happened to Joyce that changed his whole approach to literature. Whatever we may think of Ulysses today, back in the 1920s it truly broke new ground and was a game-changer. Before the First World War such a book could never have been published - but after european society was wide-open to new thinking, as all the old 'certainties' had been blown away. We might also look at The Wasteland by TS Elliott in the same light. So had both men been out on the hillside, grazing on magic mushrooms? Well it is at least a comical motif😂.

    • @dead70
      @dead70 Před 6 měsíci +3

      @@streetlegal008 Personally as someone who uses psychedelics a lot, I could see it in Joyce’s “stream of consciousness” style and his increased ability to completely shift perspective to another. But I just can’t imagine paranoid, conservative Eliot ever tried them, and The Wasteland doesn’t exactly carry much love for his fellow man

    • @streetlegal008
      @streetlegal008 Před 6 měsíci +1

      The Wasteland has similarities with Ulysses in that both offer a shift in perception that was radical at the time (1920s). To consider how radical The Wasteland was it is useful to compare it with Rudyard Kipling's pre-war
      writings. The difference in perception is as night and day.

    • @sirapos6550
      @sirapos6550 Před 5 měsíci +1

      In those times opium was very popular too.

  • @deborahr2697
    @deborahr2697 Před 7 měsíci

    Thank you ever so much for your channels. I adore them both. Can't wait for what comes next!

  • @barbarabarbour6833
    @barbarabarbour6833 Před 4 měsíci +1

    What a gift to all of us this channel is!🙏👏🥰

  • @50l12
    @50l12 Před 8 měsíci +4

    I've read and loved Dubliners though am fascinated by the mysterious Ulysses and Finnegans Wake while never cracking the surface. This has given me new inspiration to dive back in!

  • @janebishop5885
    @janebishop5885 Před 7 měsíci +3

    Well, thank you so much for this analysis. You have given me about eight inches of space on the top shelf of one of my six foot bookcases. Forty years ago I bought from the monthly book club, 3 of Joyce's novels and started Ulysses and read about five pages and then started working long hours, and had to stop. I always thought i would get back to Ulysses because back then the writing seemed very unique. But, now, your review has made me rethink that and I will not waste a minute on what sounds like an utter waste of time. ...thanks very much. Ugh.

  • @juleepeppep9848
    @juleepeppep9848 Před 7 měsíci

    Fascinating to hear this breakdown of Ulysses. It was required readings in my English Lit class in college.
    I had a difficult time putting it all together, but now I am excited to read it all over again. Thank You

  • @user-yq3sp2cq9s
    @user-yq3sp2cq9s Před 3 měsíci +1

    Now, as a newly retired teacher (kindergarten), I have time to read. I am hoping this channel will help me make good decisions about what to read next.

  • @greatbooksexplained371
    @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +7

    Let's watch together - this Friday at 8.30pm (UK time - you'll have to figure out your local time) - I hope you can join in the chat.

    • @jeff__w
      @jeff__w Před 8 měsíci +6

      “…you'll have to figure out your local time”
      Actually, you don't. CZcams automatically displays your local time and date for you. It's pretty convenient.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +5

      Good to know! @@jeff__w

  • @macreo111
    @macreo111 Před 8 měsíci +4

    Haven’t seen it yet and already know it’s going to be quality content. Keep it up!!!

  • @treasurechest123
    @treasurechest123 Před 7 měsíci

    Wow! Beautifully done, thank you! Another great series you have hatched. Congratulations!

  • @fancynancymacy
    @fancynancymacy Před 6 měsíci +2

    So excellent thank you so much
    I myself seem to have a gift for stream of conscious talking
    I appreciate learning about James Joyce and his beautiful book extraordinary book Ulysses

  • @maryroberts9315
    @maryroberts9315 Před 8 měsíci +5

    Already 1k+ views! There are so many life-long learners who enjoy an intro to a challenging work. I just finished Joseph Conrad's "The Shadow Line". Any Conrad is a good discussion book. My favorite novel is "As I Lay Dying" by Faulkner.

  • @markusmanstroma3156
    @markusmanstroma3156 Před 8 měsíci +6

    I’m reading it at the moment and halfway through… it’s wonderful! Thank you for such a lovely piece on this amazing book!

  • @danilincks5809
    @danilincks5809 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I would have loved to join you James but that’s smack dab in the middle of my work day here in Texas 😢. Hopefully you’ll keep doing these lives and I can join you! Oh and I adore your GAE channel, what a gem that is!!!

  • @isacj81
    @isacj81 Před 7 měsíci

    And I thought Great Art Explained was all I needed. Until James reinvented himself by creating this channel!
    Oh, by the way, funny that the most intelectual professor of mine has always commented well about this strange book. Only now I understood why. Definitely on my reading list now.
    Another masterpiece of work with this channel, James. I truly hope this takes off as much as the other channel.
    Anxiously looking forward to what coming up, both in Art and, now, in Books Explained!
    Cheers from Brazil!

  • @berolinastrassmann
    @berolinastrassmann Před 7 měsíci +4

    I have started and stopped Ulysses a few times. Hopefully after this I will give it another try! Thanks James for this wonderful video.

  • @frasercattini3153
    @frasercattini3153 Před 8 měsíci +6

    This is the greatest book I have ever read. Probably the hardest but the most rewarding.

    • @feanorian21maglor38
      @feanorian21maglor38 Před 4 měsíci

      I'm reading it now. It's great to hear such positive experiences. Hard books can be so rewarding. I found Catch 22 very difficult to read, but it's one of the best things I have ever read, and one of the funniest.

  • @TheVitorReis7
    @TheVitorReis7 Před 7 měsíci

    Came here since I love your art channel, i like to think of myself as an active reader, however too focused on business books, I haven’t heard of Ulysses before, i was really impressed by the explanation that each chapter is written in a unique style, i really wanna read the book now, keep up the amazing work James

  • @-corvin
    @-corvin Před 7 měsíci +1

    your approach to these videos is wonderful and carries a contagious enthusiasm that made me - and many others i assume - look at art again that was quickly dismissed at first glance. having the same for books now, is an early christmas gift! i look forward for the many books i would never think of reading if it was not for your videos.
    tl;dr: this video made me throw away my hated german copy of this book, and read an english one.

  • @Providence1017
    @Providence1017 Před 8 měsíci +7

    Ulysses is one of those books that just seems so daunting to pick up, but after this I might give it a shot! Currently reading Children of Ruin, book 2 in Adrian Tchaikovsky's Children of Time series. It's a great sci fi page turner!

  • @TaylorRyanKitterman
    @TaylorRyanKitterman Před 8 měsíci +6

    Good stuff. Looking forward to more 📚

  • @mitosocabafoster3195
    @mitosocabafoster3195 Před 7 měsíci +2

    Because of this video i now want to read Ulysses. Subscribed too...

  • @syd5393
    @syd5393 Před 8 měsíci +1

    I learn more about the arts here than in any of my classes !! Ty!!!

  • @zlatan_2197
    @zlatan_2197 Před 8 měsíci +11

    I've always felt that Joyce is painter with words. I still vividly remember first time I've red Dubliners. Ulysses stands by itself, absolute masterpiece.

  • @MRMADDNES1328
    @MRMADDNES1328 Před 8 měsíci +5

    My favorite book! Thank you. Needed this at these hard times of war

  • @elizabethfoster5435
    @elizabethfoster5435 Před 7 měsíci +2

    I love that you’re branching out to books! Love the Art channel 🤌🏼

  • @Ahmedkhan8802
    @Ahmedkhan8802 Před 7 měsíci

    I've had a copy of Ulysses for years and have read most of Joyce's other novels. I've always intended take this on but have always found excuses to keep putting it off. No more! This excellent video is the push I've needed. My thanks.

  • @Ira_Favorite
    @Ira_Favorite Před 8 měsíci +4

    Great channel debut ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

  • @MartijnPennings
    @MartijnPennings Před 7 měsíci +5

    As a non-native English speaker I often find it daunting reading "great" English novels. They're often so full of words, phrases, structures I've never come across and there's often this aura of importance around them. As if I'm about to have to understand something very profound. I've never read Ulysses, and to be honest, I probably won't. Of course I've often heard of the book, but I've never known what it's about and why it is deemed so important in English literature. So thank you so much for this explainer!

    • @glennday7802
      @glennday7802 Před 17 dny

      Trust your instincts. Ulysses is a pile of unreadable trash that appeals to fake intellectuals because they think it makes them sound educated and superior to others.

  • @dianecrepeault5423
    @dianecrepeault5423 Před 7 měsíci

    A great first video, a perfect choice to draw parallels with the visual arts going on at the time and between your two channels. I look forward to seeing more !

  • @ChrisPelletier73
    @ChrisPelletier73 Před 8 měsíci +2

    I would love to hear you speak on Miller’s Tropic of Capricorn.🙏
    I truly enjoy all of the content you produce. Having access to entertainment of this high calibre keeps me sane.

  • @nathanbarber8457
    @nathanbarber8457 Před 8 měsíci +7

    Thanks for explaining Ulysses! It was always one of those books that scared me with its length, importance, and, tbh, modernism as an on-and-off reader. My favorite book is the Martian Chronicles by Ray Bradbury.

    • @greatbooksexplained371
      @greatbooksexplained371  Před 8 měsíci +2

      That’s a great book - I love Bradbury!

    • @katherineg9396
      @katherineg9396 Před 7 měsíci

      It was a great book, I realized recently I don't have my old copy and I must get a new one. Isn't Elton John's sing "Rocket Man" based on one or two of his stories?

    • @apollonia6656
      @apollonia6656 Před 2 měsíci

      @nathanbarber,
      Have you read Rainbow's Gravity ?
      It has been said that it can be as awkward to read as Ulysses.
      Personally, this is not my type of book, but there is a Joycean touch.

  • @dylanmeyerhoeffer5281
    @dylanmeyerhoeffer5281 Před 8 měsíci +32

    This is a great book. I read it over the course of a few months and remember finishing it at a little tea shop in Littleton, CO and smiling like a fool. Yes. I said yes, this is a great book.

    • @silverstuff182
      @silverstuff182 Před 7 měsíci +2

      Why is Ulysses a great book?

    • @silverstuff182
      @silverstuff182 Před 7 měsíci +1

      Why is Ulysses a great book?

    • @tommytwogloves16
      @tommytwogloves16 Před 6 měsíci +1

      Typical pornographer. Catholic-hating Scribe.

    • @tommytwogloves16
      @tommytwogloves16 Před 6 měsíci

      @@silverstuff182It’s pure filth. If you criticize his garbage you are labeled and anti-Termite.

  • @S3_Fabrication
    @S3_Fabrication Před 7 měsíci +1

    I’m super excited about this channel, thanks!

  • @BailelaVida
    @BailelaVida Před 6 měsíci

    A beautiful rendering, my man. Thanks for that!

  • @kaustin6969
    @kaustin6969 Před 6 měsíci +11

    The most unread book in the English language

  • @JesusAnyNameWillDo
    @JesusAnyNameWillDo Před 8 měsíci +3

    Great work!!

  • @bretfisher7286
    @bretfisher7286 Před 2 měsíci

    I feel as if, being here, listening to the wonderful analysis of great literature, I've cheated life somehow. I should be in a college class I've paid for.
    Very enriching. Thank you so much. It's really added to my life.

  • @rhythmythicles
    @rhythmythicles Před 8 měsíci +1

    You had me at Rite of Spring...
    Thank you for another great piece!

  • @jessicaheger1880
    @jessicaheger1880 Před 6 měsíci +4

    Thank you. There are so many great books to read, and not enough time for them all.