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Khykhykhy t1_j2j57y5 wrote

Reply to comment by ITeachYourKidz in For Iris Murdoch, being understanding is life’s moral project by ADefiniteDescription

I know nothing about her, which book do you recommend to start with?

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ITeachYourKidz t1_j2j7cqc wrote

It’s her most famous work and in some ways a difficult read, but “The Sea, The Sea” got me started. Also enjoyed “The Bell” and “Under The Net” for her distinctive narrative voice. I feel like I write smarter when reading Murdoch (Philip Roth has a similar effect on me). The way they rationalize things is just so damn logical

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johnthomaslumsden t1_j2k1apg wrote

The Sea, The Sea is fantastic of course, but I actually started with The Bell and almost find myself preferring it. It’s shorter too, which makes it a good entry into an unknown author.

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tiredstars t1_j2mc6p0 wrote

I think I'd recommend The Bell too.

I don't know which communicates her philosophy more clearly though; I liked both books but I've really no idea what they were saying philosophically.

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ladyjuliafish t1_j2jy8eh wrote

I’ve been binge reading her. In addition to these, The Unicorn is wonderful

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doctorrocket99 t1_j2l31k1 wrote

The Black Prince is my favorite. But I like the rest of them as well.

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