6 Classic Books Everyone Pretends to Have Read

War and Peace is often regarded as one of the greatest novels ever written, yet its length of over 1,200 pages makes it quite intimidating. Set against the backdrop of the Napoleonic Wars, the story follows five aristocratic families as they deal with themes of love, war, and peace. While Tolstoy's insights into philosophy, history, and human nature are profound, the overwhelming number of characters, events, and his intricate prose can lead many readers to set the book aside, despite its renowned status.

Despite the famous opening line, “Call me Ishmael,” many readers find it hard to progress much beyond the beginning of Moby-Dick. The novel chronicles Captain Ahab’s relentless pursuit of the white whale that maimed him. Although the adventure itself is captivating, Melville’s lengthy, detailed digressions on whaling, marine biology, and philosophy can deter readers. Consequently, many people claim to have read Moby-Dick but seldom make it past the first few chapters.

James Joyce’s Ulysses is celebrated as a modernist masterpiece, yet its stream-of-consciousness style, obscure references, and intricate narrative present significant challenges for readers. The novel takes place over a single day, following Leopold Bloom as he navigates through Dublin. Known for its experimental techniques and rich symbolism, these very features can render the text impenetrable for many. While its significance in literary history is widely acknowledged, few readers manage to complete this complex work.

Dostoevsky’s The Brothers Karamazov serves as a philosophical inquiry into faith, free will, and morality. The story revolves around the tumultuous dynamics of the Karamazov family, focusing on the murder of the father and the ensuing investigation. Although the novel offers deep insights, its dense philosophical themes, lengthy monologues, and complex narrative structure can be challenging for many readers. Consequently, it is often a book that people begin with good intentions but struggle to finish.

Don Quixote is frequently regarded as the first modern novel, significantly impacting Western literature. The tale of an aging nobleman who embarks on misguided adventures as a self-proclaimed knight has captivated readers for centuries. However, its length and the old-fashioned language of the original Spanish—and even its English translations—pose challenges for readers. While many are familiar with Don Quixote as a character, few can honestly say they’ve read both volumes of this classic work.

Although it may not be as old as some of the other titles on this list, Infinite Jest has quickly established itself as one of the most difficult reads of the 20th century. David Foster Wallace’s expansive, 1,000-page novel combines postmodern narrative techniques with extensive footnotes, digressions, and a vast array of characters. Set in a dystopian future where entertainment becomes an addiction, the novel delves into various subjects, including mental health and consumerism. Its intricate nature has made it popular among literary scholars, but it poses a challenge for casual readers.