Neglected Practices: Not-Knowing

J. M. Coetzee's "Elizabeth Costello" is a philosophical novel exploring themes of animal rights, literature, and the nature of storytelling. The novel follows Elizabeth Costello, a renowned novelist, as she delivers lectures and engages in philosophical debates. Her reflections on the treatment of animals challenge readers to confront their own complicity in systems of exploitation. The novel's fragmented structure mirrors the complexities of ethical decision-making, prompting readers to grapple with difficult questions about morality and responsibility. Coetzee's masterful prose and profound insights make "Elizabeth Costello" a significant contribution to contemporary literature and ethical thought.

Published in 1878, 'Anna Karenina' is a novel by Leo Tolstoy that delves into the complexities of Russian society in the late 19th century. The story centers around the extramarital affair between Anna Karenina, a married socialite, and Count Alexei Kirillovich Vronsky, which scandalizes the social circles of Saint Petersburg. The novel also follows the parallel story of Konstantin Levin, a wealthy landowner, and his struggles with marriage, faith, and managing his estate. Tolstoy explores a wide range of themes including love, loyalty, betrayal, hypocrisy, and the differences between rural and urban life. The novel is known for its detailed character development and its profound commentary on the human condition.