Book recommendations?

[kempermentor]

> Goddlefrood:
> > Just who was this Shakespeare character anyway? 
 
> Carol responds:
> If we're recommending fiction, we could exclude his writing on the
> grounds that it's drama (including several subgenres) and poetry,
> right? 

Kemper now:
I guess I'm asking for writings (poetry, plays and prose).
That said, for American playwrights I would recommend August Wilson's
'The Piano Lesson'.  It is one of the most powerful plays I've ever
experienced. 

Again... I notice that slavery (or its aftermath) are part of what I
find enriching.  Hmm... I don't look for it.  What is it that draws me
to those themes?  Maybe it's the writing?  I don't know.

> Carol:
> Really, though, if you want to be culturally literate and your
> native language is English, it's really a good idea (and often quite
> pleasurable) to read Shakespeare's plays. 

Kemper now:
I'm not asking to be more culturally literate in the American sense. 
I'm looking for English writing from Canadians, Australians, New
Landers, etc.  I'm looking to understand other English speaking
cultures through their writings.
 
> Carol responds:
> My own recommendation for Kemper is to read the literary classics, 
> at least those written within the last few hundred years. ...

Kemper now:
I've read all the America classics you've suggested.  Hawthorne's
'Young Goodman Brown' is one of my all time favs though I could live
without ever having to read the Scarlet Letter again.

I've only read the odes.  I think I read a short story by Shelley but
for the life of me can't think of what it was.  Maybe it was an essay?

But again... I'm asking what writings English speaking, non-Americans
would recommend to further understand a bit of their country.

> Carol: 
> And don't ask me about [poets] born after about 1920.

Kemper now:
I like Billy Collins.  I know he's easy but still... guilty pleasure.

Kemper