Read more general info about my book & writing club here.

Since it’s autumn here in the Northern Hemisphere, I thought our first book should be about fall. As a Norwegian, I’ve chosen Autumn by Karl Ove Knausgård—one of our greatest writers (in my humble opinion.) I’ve read this series of seasonal books before, and I find them beautiful. I’m excited to re-read Autumn with you.

The book is a meditative invitation to see the familiar world with fresh wonder, through the eyes of a father writing to his unborn child. It’s poetic, sometimes strange, and often transforms ordinary objects into something special (which I really appreciate). You may find it beautiful—or you might not connect with it at all, and that’s completely fine too. If you can’t finish it, you’re still invited to finish the prompts. Sometimes books do touch our hearts in a good way, but other times they’re just fucking annoying. I totally get it.

Prompts

Handwrite your response (keep it no larger than A6, on two separate papers). When you’re done, scan or photograph it and e-mail it back to me anytime before the 1st of next month. Subject line: Prompts - Autumn

1. “Encyclopaedia of Life”

Knausgaard calls this book his way of cataloguing the world for his daughter. If you were to create your own "encyclopaedia of life,” what ordinary things would you include? Make a list of the things most important to you. Title it Encyclopaedia of Life.

2. Title your response the same as the chapter you’ve chosen.

Which short pieces or chapters lingered with you the most, and why? For example, one chapter is called Apples. Write your own text on this theme (or on another chapter you connected with).

Depending on what country you’re in, I hope you’re able to find the book. Good luck reading.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Xx,

Victoria (so much luv in dis club)