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henrymarlene's review
4.0
Robert Dessaix collated a number of works and observations into this book called Abracadabra. The title itself is such a magical word, used as part of spells and incantations, but also in reference to ancient Hebrew sayings that roughly translate to “I will create as I speak”. This is exactly what Dessiax has done across his life, and undertakes in this book. He talks to the reader to remind us about the joys of reading, and what reading does to open our minds. Why do we read? What draws us to pick up a book, and devour it? And at the same tie to ask why writers write, and who they write for? Do writers write for us – for the reader to pen themselves up to things they have yet to imagine or experience? Do writers also write for themselves, to heighten the moment they are scratching out on paper?
“… what you can do on the page is create the illusion that what you’re saying is for this reader – you – and nobody else.”
This book really made me think about the art of writing as much as the act of reading. Reading can open your mind and challenge the narrowness of the world. Dessiax also challenges us to think about why “everyone wants a mirror” in each book the read – they want to be able to read the words and find themselves in each word, each chapter. His writing is so playful, so full of life, and I sat on the edge of my chair at some pints as I read this, almost as if he was in the room, orating directly to me. Reading is magical because it influences your thoughts, your feelings and who you are as you draw in each character, location and plot line. Authors are the holders of so much magic, in their conjuring of words and pages that influence and manipulate us to believe the unbelievable, enjoy the unknown and languish in te beauty of words.
“You listened to me in those days as much for how I said things as for what I said”.
“… what you can do on the page is create the illusion that what you’re saying is for this reader – you – and nobody else.”
This book really made me think about the art of writing as much as the act of reading. Reading can open your mind and challenge the narrowness of the world. Dessiax also challenges us to think about why “everyone wants a mirror” in each book the read – they want to be able to read the words and find themselves in each word, each chapter. His writing is so playful, so full of life, and I sat on the edge of my chair at some pints as I read this, almost as if he was in the room, orating directly to me. Reading is magical because it influences your thoughts, your feelings and who you are as you draw in each character, location and plot line. Authors are the holders of so much magic, in their conjuring of words and pages that influence and manipulate us to believe the unbelievable, enjoy the unknown and languish in te beauty of words.
“You listened to me in those days as much for how I said things as for what I said”.
ajitate's review
4.0
I have had the privilege of hearing Robert Dessaix talk at festivals and book events and reading this chatty book of his verbally delivered work is like being in his company. The only missing element is his deadpan delivery and blinking that enlarge the fun.
His humour is dry and sometimes waspish. A little riff on Lonely Planet's failings in translation offerings had me lay the book down to get over a bout of giggling. So delightful.
If you don't know this man and his work, change this sad situation soon!
His humour is dry and sometimes waspish. A little riff on Lonely Planet's failings in translation offerings had me lay the book down to get over a bout of giggling. So delightful.
If you don't know this man and his work, change this sad situation soon!
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