Before starting, I was intimidated by the length, the long sentences, and the general difficulty. However, having come into the experience (I’m almost finished with vol 1)ready for the challenge, I found that this book heavily rewards a careful reader. Look up any word that is new to you, any painting the book refers to, almost anything at all that is not readily understood. Reread the sentences that don’t make sense if you have to. At least for me, the book has proven to you to be an extremely vivid experience, and captivating experience. That being said if I had to read this book for a class 5+ years ago on a time crunch I may not have enjoyed it very much.

I’m just hoping the rest of the volumes are this good!