Books matching: clear and reflective writing
9 result(s)
- #1
'The Bet' by Anton Chekhov is a short story that explores deep themes and provokes readers to contemplate life's grand scale. The story delves into the concept of isolation and its effects on human psychology, highlighting the consequences of lifelong isolation versus capital punishment. Through the engaging narrative, Chekhov challenges readers to ponder the pursuit of knowledge and its futility, all while questioning the value of freedom in the face of material wealth.
It was a dark autumn night. The old banker was walking up and down his study and remembering how, fifteen years before, he had given a party one autumn evening. There had been many clever men there, a... - #2
At the age of sixty, Cory Taylor is dying of melanoma related brain cancer. Her illness is no longer treatable, and as her body weakens, she describes the experience with vulnerability, strength, courage, and humility. She reflects on her feelings, memories of her parents' lives and deaths, and examines why she wishes to choose the circumstances of her death. Taylor's last words offer a vocabulary for readers to speak about the inevitable event we all will face. Written in a clear-eyed and unsentimental style, "Dying: A Memoir" is a deeply affecting meditation on death, as well as a funny and wise tribute to life.
Taylor writes frankly about her terminal illness and her desire to meet death on her own terms, even though it is not legal in her home country of Australia. She delves into her personal life, including the breakup of her parents' marriage and her relationship with her father, while also contemplating the taboo topic of death in society. The book explores the philosophical thoughts that arise when faced with death and offers a personal relay of memories and bloodline relationships, leading to a sense of peace, acceptance, and wonder at the events and people that shaped her.
About two years ago I bought a euthanasia drug online from China. You can get itthat way, or you can travel to Mexico or Peru and buy it over the counter from avet. Apparently you just say you need to... - #3
'Churchill: A Life' by Martin Gilbert delves into the fascinating political journey of the iconic British Prime Minister, Winston Churchill. Through detailed accounts of Churchill's life and historical context, readers are provided with a comprehensive understanding of the significant moments in his career. is structured in a unique way, with the year and Churchill's age prominently displayed on each page, making it easy for readers to navigate through different periods of his life. The writing style is engaging and informative, offering readers a chance to explore Churchill's eloquence and literary prowess through his own writings and speeches.
It is my aim in these pages to give a full and rounded picture of Churchill’s life, both in its personal and political aspects. His career has been the subject of countless books and essays, in which ... - #4
'Notes on Nationalism' by George Orwell is a collection of three essays that delve into the concept of nationalism in a thought-provoking manner. Orwell distinguishes between nationalism and patriotism, highlighting the dangers of blind loyalty to a country or ideology. The essays explore different forms of nationalism, such as positive, transferred, and negative nationalism, shedding light on how this phenomenon influences societies and individuals. Orwell's writing style is clear, direct, and insightful, providing a critical analysis of nationalist tendencies among intellectuals and the broader population.
'Zen Mind, Beginner's Mind: Informal Talks on Zen Meditation and Practice' by Shunryu Suzuki is a collection of informal talks on Zen meditation and practice, providing insights into the Zen mindset of Right Practice, Right Attitude, and Right Understanding. The author's writing style is clear and concise, focusing on mindfulness and everyday practice rather than enlightenment. Suzuki Roshi presents the basics of Zen from the details of posture and breathing in zazen to the perception of nonduality in a way that resonates with the joy of insight.
offers a deep look into the Zen philosophy, emphasizing living in the moment and having a beginner's mind. It encourages readers to approach everything as if it were new and to be open to learning continuously. Suzuki's teachings touch on the essence of mind, big mind, and the oneness with the universe, guiding readers towards understanding the Zen way of life and practice.
Now I would like to talk about our zazen posture. When you sit in the full lotus position, your left foot is on your right thigh, and your right foot is on your left thigh. When we cross our legs like...- #6
'Feel Free: Essays' by Zadie Smith is a collection of essays that cover a wide range of topics such as politics, popular culture, personal stories, and reviews of books, films, and artwork. Smith's writing style is described as clear-sighted, honest, insightful, erudite, and personal, offering a blend of humor, personality, and deep insights into cultural, social, and political ideas. The essays are well-written, entertaining, and thought-provoking, with a mix of personal reflections, cultural commentary, and philosophical musings.
Last time I was in Willesden Green I took my daughter to visit my mother. The sun was out. We wandered down Brondesbury Park toward the high road. The “French Market” was on, which is a slightly impro... - #7
'Young Hearts Crying' by Richard Yates tells the story of Michael Davenport, an aspiring poet, and a rich girl who got married, had a child, divorced, and continued living. The book explores how the dreams of youth evolve with maturity or keep individuals stuck in immaturity. The characters in the novel reflect this theme, with some finding maturity while others remain in a state of resignation or aloneness. The writing style is lauded for its restful tone that signals a sense of acceptance or giving up the struggle, portraying a bittersweet ending that resonates with readers.
The narrative delves into the complexities of relationships, personal growth, and the passage of time, showcasing characters who navigate life's disappointments, struggles, and moments of redemption. With a focus on fractured lives and relationships, 'Young Hearts Crying' offers a poignant exploration of human experiences, capturing the nuances of middle-class American life, artistic aspirations, and the challenges of navigating relationships amidst changing circumstances.
By the time he was twenty-three, Michael Davenport had learned to trust his own skepticism. He didn’t have much patience with myths or legends of any kind, even those that took the form of general ass... - #8
'Foundation and Chaos' by Greg Bear is the second book in the Second Foundation trilogy, authorized by the Asimov estate. The novel delves into the time period between the establishment of the Foundation and Hari Seldon's lifetime on Trantor. It introduces new characters like Seldon's granddaughter and explores the intricate political landscape of the Galactic Empire. The writing style is reminiscent of Asimov's, focusing on psychohistorical forces, mentalics, and the machinations of R. Daneel Olivaw. The plot weaves together elements from Asimov's original works while introducing new perspectives and backstories for characters, providing a deeper insight into the Foundation universe.
Hari Seldon stood in slippered feet and a thick green scholar’s robe on the enclosed parapet of an upperside maintenance tower, looking from an altitude of two hundred meters over the dark aluminum an...
(Also, see 4 recommendations for the series Second Foundation ) - #9
"Come Together: The Science (and Art!) of Creating Lasting Sexual Connections" by Emily Nagoski explores the intricacies of maintaining meaningful sexual connections in long-term relationships. The book is divided into two parts: the first discusses how couples can sustain their sexual bond by addressing not just the physical aspects, but also the mental and emotional dimensions of intimacy. The second part translates these insights into practical tools for real-life challenges that couples may experience, making the learning applicable and relatable.
Nagoski's writing style is accessible, balancing scientific detail with conversational language that's easy to digest. Readers appreciate her use of personal anecdotes and relatable examples, which bring the concepts to life. Each chapter includes summaries and reflection questions to enhance understanding and engagement. The book is recommended for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of human sexuality and improve their relationships, making it an essential read for those in or entering long-term partnerships.