Books matching: existential inquiry
58 result(s)
- #1
Save:'The Thing Itself' by Adam Roberts is a science fiction novel that delves into themes of reality, perception, and the nature of existence. The story follows Charles Gardener, a middle-aged man haunted by his past experiences in the Antarctic, as he navigates a complex narrative filled with philosophical musings, time jumps, and a chase scene that keeps readers engaged. The writing style is described as gripping, compelling, and brain-busting, with a mix of Kantian philosophy and a touch of humor that adds depth to the plot.
Roy would probably say the whole thing began when he solved the Fermi Paradox, when he achieved (his word) clarity. Not clarity, I think: but sick. Sick in the head. He probably wouldn’t disagree. Not... The Book of Sand and Shakespeare's Memory by Jorge Luis Borges is a collection of short stories that delve into hidden worlds, evoking distant sadness and mystery in readers. Borges' writing style is described as calm, quiet, yet unsettling and thought-provoking, taking readers on a journey through fantastical plots that pay homage to other literary giants like H.G. Wells and H.P. Lovecraft. The stories cover themes such as the perfect one-word poem, a book with no end, and the complexities of Shakespeare's memory, showcasing Borges' ability to captivate readers with brevity and clarity.
- #3
Save:Walking on Glass by Iain M. Banks is a novel that weaves together three distinct narrative threads. The first story follows Graham, a student in London who is infatuated with Sara. The second story revolves around Steven, a paranoid man who believes he is a warrior from another world. The third story focuses on Quiss and Ajayi, former officers imprisoned in a castle, forced to play games to solve a riddle. As the stories progress, connections between the characters and their seemingly disparate lives start to emerge, culminating in a complex and thought-provoking exploration of interconnectedness and mystery.
The book is known for its unique narrative structure, with alternating chapters dedicated to each storyline. Banks skillfully delves into the minds of the characters, creating a dark and surreal atmosphere that delves into themes of suffering, torment, and the complexities of human nature. Through intricate storytelling and unexpected twists, Walking on Glass challenges readers to unravel the mysteries within the characters' lives and the overarching narrative.
He walked through the white corridors, past the noticeboards with their offers of small rooms and old cars, past the coffee bar where people sat at tables, past a hole in the white floor where an old ... - #4
Save:The Afterlives by Thomas Pierce is a novel that delves into the themes of life, death, and the afterlife through the eyes of the protagonist, Jim Byrd. After a near-death experience, Jim becomes hyper-aware of mortality and embarks on a journey with his wife, Annie, to search for answers about what comes next. The novel weaves together elements of speculative fiction, metaphysics, and love, exploring the existential dread of mortality and the quest for meaning beyond life.
Pierce's writing style in The Afterlives is described as smart, funny, and imaginative, with a focus on the profound aspects of the novel, particularly regarding what happens after death. The narrative skillfully navigates between the mundane activities of daily life and the metaphysical questions surrounding existence, offering a thought-provoking exploration of life, death, and the unknown realms beyond.
Jim Holt's book 'Why Does the World Exist?: An Existential Detective Story' delves into the profound question of why there is something rather than nothing. Holt embarks on a journey to explore this existential mystery by interviewing renowned scientists, philosophers, and writers, presenting their diverse perspectives on the origins of the universe. Through thought-provoking conversations and interludes detailing snippets of his own life, Holt navigates complex theories of cosmology, metaphysics, and theology, making the abstract concepts accessible to readers. The book skillfully weaves together historical and modern thoughts on existence, challenging readers to contemplate the fundamental nature of reality and the human quest for understanding.
Holt's writing style is engaging and thought-provoking, blending intellectual inquiry with personal anecdotes and philosophical musings. With a blend of humor, curiosity, and intellectual rigor, he guides readers through a narrative that humanizes the profound questions of existence. The book offers a comprehensive exploration of the various explanations provided by theologians, physicists, and philosophers throughout history, inviting readers to ponder the mysteries of the universe and confront the complexities of existence.
I would earnestly warn you against trying to find out the reason for and explanation of everything. . . . To try and find out the reason for everything is very dangerous and leads to nothing but disap...- #6
Save:Aristotle's 'Metaphysics' is a monumental work that combines worldbuilding, deep philosophical concepts, and intricate translations. The book is praised for its lucid translation, detailed commentary, and the way it delves into Aristotle's complex ideas. The volume serves as a gateway into ancient philosophy, providing valuable insights into Aristotle's thoughts on metaphysics and natural philosophy.
Aristotle has indicated that wisdom, the highest science, which is the object of philosophy, is a science of causes and principles. In this second chapter he spells out that the causes and principles ... 'The Varieties of Scientific Experience: A Personal View of the Search for God' by Carl Sagan is a compilation of lectures delivered by the author in 1985 at the University of Glasgow. Sagan explores the intertwinement of science and religion, discussing topics such as evolution, the origins of religious beliefs, the existence of extraterrestrial intelligence, and the relationship between science and spirituality. Through his eloquent and logical discussions, Sagan encourages skepticism, rational analysis, and the application of the scientific method to explore complex questions about life, the universe, and the role of humanity.
All of us grow up with the sense that there is some personal relationship between us, ourselves, and the universe. And there is a natural tendency to project our own knowledge, especially self-knowled...'Letters from the Earth: Uncensored Writings' by Mark Twain is a collection of satirical essays and short stories that provide a humorous and critical perspective on religion, humanity, and society. Twain's writing style in this book is characterized by biting sarcasm, sharp wit, and dark humor as he explores themes such as the human condition, religious beliefs, and the absurdities of the world. The book includes letters from Satan to other archangels, fictional memoirs of biblical figures like Adam and Eve, and critiques of various aspects of human behavior and beliefs.
The Creator sat upon the throne, thinking. Behind him stretched the illimitable continent of heaven, steeped in a glory of light and color; before him rose the black night of Space, like a wall. His m...- #9
Save:'The Names' by Don DeLillo is a complex and deep exploration of various aspects of the human experience, with a writing style that is both profound and difficult to engage with. The novel follows James Axton, a risk analyst living in Athens, as he navigates through his experiences abroad and delves into a mystery involving a cult that has been murdering people. The narrative is described as a jumbled series of impressions, with the story unfolding slowly and tangentially, making it challenging for readers to grasp the main thread until later in the book. Despite the intricate plot, the writing is praised for its searing and prophetic nature, with Delillo's prose being described as weirdly flat-footed yet purposefully awkward, creating a unique and captivating reading experience.
- #10
Save:"Holy the Firm" by Annie Dillard is a short yet powerful book that delves into the exploration of what is holy, what is good, and what is certain. The author's writing style is described as a prose poem, seeking to reckon with the place people have in the world, touching on themes of nature, God, suffering, and one's own beliefs. The book is moving and profound, written in an earthy way that is both intense and thoughtful about God, tragedy, and fierce landscapes. Dillard's exploration of the extremes of beauty and pain, as well as the coexistence of both in life, is a central theme that resonates throughout the book.
Every day is a god, each day is a god, and holiness holds forth in time. I worship each god, I praise each day splintered down, splintered down and wrapped in time like a husk, a husk of many colors s...
