Literature

[close] The world is made up of two kinds of people: first, those who love classics, and second, those who have not yet read a classic. Be bold and join us as we tackle reading and discussing the classics. New Classics, Old Classics, Long and Short Classics, and some that exhibit potential to become a classic. If you are part of the second group of people, the classic you can love for a lifetime is just pages away. Here at "Catching up on the Classics," we primarily focus on works written in English, but don't neglect quality translations of classics that were written in other languages. Here you will find members from around the world who are interested and supportive about reading traditional classics, so don’t delay. Join today.

[close] The most active group for apocalyptic and dystopian stories! Join a monthly book discussion, get recommendations, or just tell us if you like canned peaches. We're a big, friendly group, but there's always room for more!

[close] This group is for anyone interested in Utopian and Dystopian Literature to discuss anything from Thomas More's Utopia to present day fiction. Everyone is welcome, including experts or those who are completely new to the genre and want to know more! Utopian fiction depicts imagined societies that display speculative improvements to the real society in which they were written. Although not always perfect, and more often than not unfeasible, the societies of Utopian fiction emit optimism for a better way of living. Dystopian fiction, or anti-utopia, on the other hand, depicts alternative societies where negative developments dominate. These pessimistic depictions are often warnings of the perceived dangers at the time of writing, particularly influenced by the rapid development of science, and the realisation of its destructive powers following the First World War. Perhaps the fundamental interest of Utopian and Dystopian Literature lies in its relationship to the time it was written, whether it is a symbol of a society’s optimistic faith in progress or the growing fear of the destructive nature of mankind. The books chosen for the group's to-read shelf are a selection from the ‘Key works’ list from The Cambridge Companion to Utopian Literature, plus suggestions from group members

[close] This is a group for discerning readers looking to discover, explore, and critically discuss some of the World’s literature, with a primary emphasis on the great books, short stories and poetry of the early-18th century to the early-20th century. You can expect to find intelligent discussions associated with literary periods and movements; major and minor authors and their works; and potential connections and relationships with other artistic movements and periods (e.g., music, visual arts, architecture, etc.).We encourage participants to bring their intellectual curiosity and a willingness to share their knowledge and engage in critical thinking and discussion. This group is intended to be a safe, comfortable, yet stimulating haven for those looking to learn more and share their love for some of the World’s great literature.