The first time I read Dune, I was in high school. Twenty or so years later, I'm re-reading it. Sadly, I'm not enjoying it as much as I did the first time. I'm having too many questions about the Bene Gesserit system as well as the Spacing Guild. Perhaps reading at this point in my life other aspects of the story are more important than my initial reading. I recall being enraptured by the universe Herbert created. I remember being half in love with Paul. This time, not so much the same reaction. While the universe remains strong and robust, it's the story behind the story that draws me. The little comments made that doesn't really move the plot along. For example, Lady Jessica has a passing thought that Bene Gesserit don't reproduce because of biological urges, but because of mental decisions. This intrigues me. So, what was the reasoning behind her conception of Paul and then Alia? How are they able to control their reproduction? Why has Jessica never questions her own biological heritage?
Truly a different read. I think I'll need to read Chapterhouse. I've only read the first three books, so Heretics and Chapterhouse would be new reads for me. Should be curious. What could possibly follow Paul turning worm?
