Cuppa Classics brings together classic brews and timeless reads. Each edition is crafted for moments of reflection, discovery, and quiet joy.
Know MoreIf you have ever picked up a thick Russian novel and wondered whether you were ready for it, chances are the name Fyodor Dostoevsky was printed on the cover. His books have a reputation: intense, philosophical, morally unsettling. They are often described not just as stories, but as experiences. But who was this man whose fiction continues to disturb and illuminate readers nearly two centuries later? Also read: Toni Morrison’s Legacy: From Beloved to Becoming the First Black Woman Nobel Laureate in Literature
Sometimes, you pick up a classic that everyone seems to rave about—on the internet, in book clubs, across discussion forums. You’ve heard how profound it is, how life-changing, how it’s a “must-read.” Even when it has a reputation for being dense or difficult, you decide to see what the fuss is about. You begin with enthusiasm, determined to crack it. A few months later, the bookmark hasn’t moved. The book now sits in a quiet corner of your shelf, gathering dust. You’ve started it, restarted it, put it aside, picked it up again, and promised yourself you’ll return to it someday… yet somehow, you never do. Of course, sometimes it simply comes down to personal preference—you may not connect with the story enough to push through. But certain classics are infamous for a reason: layered characters, philosophically complex themes, and language that demands patience and focus. In this blog, we explore those iconic classics that many people begin with the best intentions, yet surprisingly few ever finish.
We tend to speak of classics in hushed tones. They are the sacred texts of literature—quoted reverently, taught religiously, and displayed proudly on bookshelves. But here’s the delicious secret: many of these masterpieces were absolutely loathed by other great writers. Yes—literary legends throwing shade at literary legends. What follows isn’t just a list of complaints; it’s a reminder that art is subjective, rivalry is real, and even genius has its critics. Also read: Forbidden Yet Unforgettable: 10 Classics That Were Once Banned