Greetings LC

Hey there everyone, my name is Varun. I was born and live in America, and english is my primary language, although I have extensively studied French for 5 years and can speak Hindi with an unfortunately conspicuous American accent. I have been an avid reader of literature all my life (beginning of course with Harry Potter and eventually maturing into the classics ;-)), and have recently taken a great interest in writing as well. I do read the latest fads now and then, but my preference lies rather for classical literature; particularly Russian classics. I am a huge fan of the works of Dostoyevsky, my favorite and most cherished being Crime and Punishment. I also enjoy works encompassing socio-political themes, and works exploring the intricate elements of human nature.
I was informed about this forum by a close friend of mine, who recommended it to me due to both the ingenuity and ingratiating nature of its members. I enjoy literary discussions and debates, and hence I felt I should give this forum a shot.
I am looking forward to meeting and getting to know all of you better.
Take care and have a great day

Hi there, Janus, and welcome to the LC!

Just let me ask - why did you choose "Janus" for your nickname? Complete with the corresponding avatar, no less!

Welcome to the LC, Janus!

Take the time to look around and see what's what. Feel free to post early and often. If you have any questions just ask Laura or myself.

Crime and Punishment is also one of my favorites, as well.

Hey Janus, Welcome aboard.



I'm quite new here myself; I've found the members to be very helpful with both book recommendations and advice on writing.

I hope you enjoy it here.

Hi Janus, welcome to LC.

Interesting username ... god with two faces. Any reason?

Doesn't all of humanity live within the narrow confines of Society like the two-faced Janus? Showing the world their altruistic faces, while secretly enjoying and reveling in the sweet darkness innate to our very fibre? My chosen username merely serves as a form of expression to address these various logical aberrations (or "two-facedness") in Society which appear painfully conspicuous to one bound by its oppressive shackles, such as myself. What is existence other than a futile cesspool of two-faced people ensnared by the two-faced norm of a two-faced society in a two-faced world?

Well, our diversity in members continues to grow.
As far as Russian literature goes, Crime and Punishment is staring at me disapprovingly (as it is unread) from its shelf. Is the Constance Garnett translation any good?

Your views on society are unique and interesting, if rather depressing. I may agree with some points (how some aspects of society have hypocrisy and multiple faces) and disagree with other points. However, the last thing I want is a debate about that .