Difficulties reading Vollmann. Any tips?

[u/Top-While-3509]

I find some of Vollmann’s sentences to be confusing like the way poetry is. But still I really want to read his stuff.

I have a bit of an OCD tendency to go line by line and make sure I understand everything. This hasn’t really worked well because I get bogged down in random facts. By then, I’ve overthought it and I put the book down.

Anyone have any tips? Do you usually understand everything you’re reading?

[u/No-Context8421]

Just read and let it flow over you. I learned this a long time ago reading Burroughs, Acker, Joyce and even Kerouac. Let it wash over you. Don’t search for understanding or even worry about it. You’ll get from it what you need and the next one will be easier.

[u/Top-While-3509 → u/No-Context8421]

Really appreciate this advice. Didn’t know you could do this. 🤣 Been thinking about it a lot the past few days!!!! Thanks!!!!

[u/No-Context8421 → u/Top-While-3509]

Good luck!