Start with his more accessible works first. 'As I Lay Dying' is a good choice as it has a relatively straightforward plot compared to some of his other novels. This will help you get used to his writing style.
First, it's good to do some background research on Faulkner's life and the historical context of the South. This will help you understand the setting and some of the cultural references. Then, read slowly and carefully. Faulkner's writing can be complex, with long sentences and multiple narrators. Don't be afraid to re - read passages that are unclear. And make notes as you read, jotting down your thoughts on the characters, themes, and any questions you have.
Start with his most famous works first. For instance, begin with 'Cat's Cradle' or 'Slaughterhouse - Five'. These are more accessible and can give you a good sense of his writing style. Then, gradually move on to his less well - known novels. Take notes as you read to keep track of his recurring themes and ideas.
To best approach reading his complete novels, it's important to keep an open mind. Vonnegut's ideas can be quite radical and different from what you might be used to. Read slowly and savor the details. Notice how he uses his unique brand of humor to make a point. For example, in 'Breakfast of Champions', the way he plays with the idea of free will and determinism is both funny and profound. Try to analyze the characters' motives and how they change throughout the story. And don't forget to look at the overall message he is trying to convey about society and humanity.
To figure out Faulkner's best novels, you can consider the themes they explore. Novels like 'Light in August' that deal with complex and relevant themes such as race and identity are often considered great. The writing style also matters. 'The Sound and the Fury' with its unique stream - of - consciousness is a hallmark of Faulkner's genius. Additionally, the longevity of the novels in the literary canon, like 'Go Down, Moses', is a sign of their quality.
One way is to look at critical acclaim. Novels like 'The Sound and the Fury' have been highly praised by critics for their innovative narrative styles and deep exploration of human nature. Another factor could be the influence they've had on other writers. For example, 'As I Lay Dying' has inspired many with its unique take on family and death. Also, the themes they cover, like the race relations in 'Absalom, Absalom!', can contribute to deeming them as some of his best works.
When approaching 'a miscellany of short stories', it's beneficial to set aside dedicated reading time for each story. Take the time to understand the characters, the setting, and the main idea of each story. You could also make notes if you like, about your favorite parts or any thoughts that come to mind. Since it's a collection, you can read at your own pace and even skip a story if it doesn't seem interesting at first. After reading a few, you might start to notice patterns or common themes that run through the miscellany, which can enhance your overall understanding and enjoyment of the collection.
For a great manga reading experience, start with popular series in genres that intrigue you. Also, consider joining manga forums or groups to get suggestions. And make sure you have good lighting and a comfy spot to read without distractions.
Just relax and let the story unfold. Don't rush through it. Focus on the art and the characters' expressions.
First, be aware of your own tolerance for explicit content. If you're easily offended, it might not be for you. Second, try to understand the context of the story. Sometimes the explicit parts are there to serve a greater narrative purpose, like in 'Watchmen' where it shows the dark side of society.
First, don't be intimidated. Start by reading summaries or reviews to get a general idea of the plot and themes. For example, with 'Ulysses', knowing it's about a day in the life of Leopold Bloom in Dublin helps. Then, read slowly and take notes if needed. If you encounter difficult passages, try to break them down into smaller parts.