Books matching: existential reflections
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:By Nightfall by Michael Cunningham is a novel that delves into the life of Peter Harris, a middle-aged art dealer in Manhattan. His seemingly normal life with his wife, Rebecca, and their daughter takes a turn when Rebecca's younger brother, Mizzy, enters the picture. Peter finds himself drawn to Mizzy, leading to a series of events that challenge his relationships and perceptions of beauty. The narrative explores themes of beauty, love, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of the New York art world.
One of the inscrutable old horses that pull tourist carriages has been hit by a car somewhere up on Broadway, which has stopped traffic all the way down to the Port Authority, which is making Peter an... - #2
Save:Near to the Wild Heart by Clarice Lispector is a novel that delves into the life of the central character Joana, exploring her philosophical questions, unconventional nature, and introspective journey through childhood, adolescence, marriage, and self-discovery. The narrative style of the book is described as impressionistic, dreamlike, and introspective, reminiscent of modernist writers like Virginia Woolf and James Joyce. Joana's fierce determination to stay true to herself, her complex relationships, and her musings on life, death, and identity are at the core of this extraordinary novel.
Daddy's typewriter was tapping out tac-tac..tac-tac-tac... The clock chimed brightly ting-ting... ting-ting... The silence dragged out zzzzzzz. The wardrobe was saying what? clothes — clothes — clothe... - #3
Save:'The Wall' by Jean-Paul Sartre is a collection of short stories that delve into existential themes and human experiences. The title story, 'The Wall', portrays the thoughts of men facing imminent execution during the Spanish Civil War, while other stories explore topics such as intimacy, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Sartre's writing style is described as bitingly visceral, with a focus on existentialism, anti-bourgeois sentiments, and sexually decadent portrayals of characters in Paris.
Sartre's stories are known for their depth and complexity, challenging readers to engage emotionally and thoughtfully with the characters and themes presented. The narratives are described as demanding in terms of engagement but ultimately rewarding for readers who are open to exploring existential questions and delving into the psyche of the characters. offers a mix of dark, introspective storytelling that prompts readers to think deeply about life, relationships, and the human condition.
- #4
Save:A Burnt-Out Case by Graham Greene follows the story of Querry, a world-famous architect who, feeling burnt out and disillusioned with life, seeks solace in a leper colony in the Congo. Despite his attempts to escape his past and live a quiet life of service, Querry is constantly confronted with his previous fame and struggles with his own beliefs and identity. The novel explores themes of faith, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of a remote leper colony overseen by Catholic missionaries. Greene's writing style is described as poignant, introspective, and filled with symbolism, providing a deep and thought-provoking reading experience.
The cabin-passenger wrote in his diary a parody of Descartes: ‘I feel discomfort, therefore I am alive,’ then sat pen in hand with no more to record. The captain in a white soutane stood by the open w... - #5
Save:'Red Doc>' by Anne Carson is a sequel to 'Autobiography of Red', depicting a more somber and melancholic tone. The story follows the characters Geryon and Herakles as they navigate through life after myth, with Herakles returning from war as a damaged individual suffering from post-traumatic stress. The plot is described as meandering and confusing at times, but still engrossing and bewitching due to Carson's unique style of storytelling through poetry. The book explores the themes of existence, love, and the impact of past choices on present lives.
- #6
Save:"You Shall Know Our Velocity!" by Dave Eggers is a novel that follows two friends, Will and Hand, as they embark on a journey around the world to give away a large inheritance. The book explores their adventures, the complexities of their friendship, and the underlying themes of guilt, fate, and responsibility. The narrative alternates between travel accounts and flashback sequences, creating a compelling story that captures the essence of free-spirited travel and the emotional turmoil of the characters.
The writing style of the book is described as vivid, living, and breathing, enveloping the reader in the urgency and uncertainty of life. The author, Dave Eggers, showcases his creativity, humor, and ability to connect with readers through his abstract and sometimes strange storytelling. The book delves into the inner workings of the main characters' minds, balancing between being a travel story and a psychoanalysis of the protagonist, adding layers of depth to the narrative.
I was talking to Hand, one of my two best friends, the one still alive, and we were planning to leave. At this point there were good days, good weeks, when we pretended that it was acceptable that Jac... - #7
Save:'Wild Geese' by Mary Oliver is a poetry collection that touches the hearts of readers with its life-affirming and nature-inspired verses. The book is known for its accessible and moving poetry that explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and the beauty of the natural world. Through poems like 'Wild Geese', 'The Journey', and 'Morning Poem', Mary Oliver invites readers to reflect on their place in the world and find solace in the simplicity and wonder of everyday life.
- #8
Save:The Tartar Steppe by Dino Buzzati is a novel that follows the story of Giovanni Drogo, a young soldier who is stationed at Fort Bastiani on the border of the Tartar Steppe. The book explores themes of solitude, the futility of military preparations in times of peace, and the struggle to find purpose in life while waiting for something significant to happen. Buzzati's writing is described as sparse yet beautifully told, capturing the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere of the isolated fortress and the desolate steppe.
The novel portrays the protagonist's journey of waiting for glory and purpose in a setting filled with absurd military bureaucracy, monotony, and the passage of time. The narrative delves into Drogo's internal conflicts, his gradual acceptance of his isolated existence, and the haunting realization of missed opportunities and wasted time as he becomes entrenched in the routine and hopelessness of his post at Bastiani fortress.
He had himself called while it was still dark and for the first time put on his lieutenant’s uniform. When he had done, he looked at himself in the mirror by the light of an oil lamp but failed to fin... - #9
Save:The novel 'I Have the Right to Destroy Myself' by Young-Ha Kim revolves around a nameless narrator who assists people in committing suicide, raising questions about his supernatural nature and motives. The story also delves into the lives of two brothers and their interactions with strange, hopeless women leading to tragic outcomes. The writing style is described as sparse yet compelling, touching on themes of art, death, and the complexities of human desires.
I'M LOOKING AT JACQUES-LOUIS David's 1793 oil painting, The Death of Marat, printed in an art book. The Jacobin revolutionary Jean-Paul Marat lies murdered in his bath. His head is wrapped in a towel,... 'The Wisdom of Insecurity: A Message for an Age of Anxiety' by Alan W. Watts is a profound exploration of man's quest for psychological security and spiritual certainty in the realms of religion and philosophy. The book underlines the importance of acknowledging the uncertainty and vulnerability of human life, arguing that our insecurities stem from our desperate need to find stability. Watts suggests that salvation and sanity lie in embracing the present moment and living fully in the now, rather than trying to grasp onto an illusion of security. Through a mix of Eastern philosophy, scientific backing, and a clear distinction between faith and belief, Watts presents thought-provoking ideas on how to navigate the complexities of life and find inner peace.
Every book is a journey, but this one aims to travel everywhere and nowhere. It begins in a state of anxiety, which few people want to dwell on. It punches holes in shared belief and treats sacred thi...
