Review: To See Clearly: Why Ruskin Matters

To See Clearly: Why Ruskin Matters by Suzanne Fagence Cooper
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

There's something gentle about this book. It is delicate in how it is written, it moves like a soft breeze through Ruskin's life and work. It is brief, but instead of being sparse on detail it has been written to be clear on what details it wants to focus on. The chapters are not organised in chronological order, but it prefers to jump around and discuss aspects of Ruskin's life. Each chapter starts anew, taking us to a part of his life and sometimes back to the very beginning. Then, it unfolds him carefully and selectively.

I have criticisms. I feel Cooper may be a little too sympathetic to Ruskin in some parts, the sensitivity of some of the more controversial discussions feel under-appreciated. In other places, the book feels repetitive. A number of the chapters will re-iterate his childhood, and sometimes feel like they are saying nothing new. Finally, I wish the quotations from Ruskin himself were more extended, we are told he is a beautiful writer but not offered enough of this writing. (Though on this last point, I am being pedantic. This is a quick guide, not a detailed companion. I must go and read Ruskin for myself).

At its core, however, this is a brilliant book. Despite my criticisms, there was not a moment where I wanted to put this book down. The book does not merely discuss Ruskin, but it is written in a way that reminded me of the Pre-Raphaelites and Ruskin's work. Cooper has interesting things to say, and the book is a very charming read. It is inspiring in the right ways.

It may not be as enjoyable for everyone as it was for me. However, if you are into art, then it is a wonderful introduction to a towering figure of the 19th century.

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