Ye gods… I ordered Larsen’s Essential Guide to Irish Flute and Tin Whistle, which I’ve seen referred to as “the big book” (hence the topic’s subject). This thing truly is the big book, innit? That’s a whole lot of book for $27 (thanks, Amazon!). I fully intend to read cover-to-cover, but I was wondering if anyone had any particular bit that they found more insightful/enjoyable than other bits of the book? Basically, it’ll be a bit before I get to truly sit down with the thing and go through it, and I was looking for some nice little nuggets I could glean in the mean time with a shorter read.
Chapter 23: the language analogy revisited 
I’ve got this book and to be honest I struggle with it. Does anyone else?
I think he really labours his points and his style makes me drowsey.
I think it need not have been an inch thick.
I am perserving with it, but sad to say, it is because I feel I ought to, not because I’m enjoying it. I expect I shall come out of it a better player. No pain, no gain.
My experience with this book is to read a bit and go play and apply it - especially ornaments etc. You can’t learn them by reading the book - you can only learn “about” them. Then go LISTEN and play. I have had this book for several years and often return to it with a question.
Also - it’s a great resource, but be aware that not everybody does the ornaments the Grey Larsen way. In fact, some teachers will advise against it. You must find what works best for you.