On Aristotle & Dante

I got to see Aristotle & Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe on the big screen the day of release. Many things crossed my mind. I felt excited to see this story finally translated into a new medium. I also thought back to when I first had the pleasure of reading the book. It was the summer of 2016, and I instantly fell in love with it. I loved it so much I read it again last year in anticipation of the movie. Both as I read the book and watched the film, I felt a myriad of emotions. I saw myself in Aristotle’s desire to know who he really is and in Dante’s optimism. I appreciate the book’s often philosophical tone as we see the characters grow through their journey. I am also reminded of the time in my life when I too woke up day after day wishing the world was different… wishing the world was a place that didn’t quite understand me or didn’t challenge my existence sometimes. Eventually I learned to play by different rules, just like Ari & Dante. Not the different rules of a single summer, but the different rules of my life.  In short, the book and its film adaptation make me feel seen and bring me a great deal of comfort. The journey of our protagonists makes me fall in love with the story time and time again. My journey is still very new, and I still have a lot to learn. I hope I get to discover all the secrets of the universe. If you’ve had to learn to play by different rules, I hope you get to discover all those secrets as well.

P.S. If you haven’t, go read the book and see the movie. Oh! And read the book sequel.