Books matching: human existence
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- #1
Save:One Human Minute by Stanisław Lem is a collection of introductions and critical essays about books that were never written. The titular piece is a nonfiction work summing up everything that happens in one minute of life on earth. The book delves into statistics on everything that occurs on Earth every minute, explores the development of intelligent life, and presents a future Earth where computers take over everything. Lem's writing style is described as witty, erudite, and educational, offering quick and enjoyable reads that are both thought-provoking and imaginative.
This book presents what all the people in the world are doing, at the same time, in the course of one minute. So says the Introduction. That no one thought of it sooner is surprising. It was simply be... - #2
Save:"For the Time Being" by Annie Dillard is a spiritual and philosophical exploration that weaves together insights from various traditions and musings on human existence. The book delves into topics such as birth, death, the role of God, and the impermanence of life, all while maintaining a clear and thought-provoking writing style. Dillard's narrative ruminations touch on the mysteries of existence, drawing inspiration from figures like Jesuit paleontologist Pierre Teilhard de Chardin and incorporating elements from different spiritual practices.
This photograph shows, for example, the bird-headed dwarfs. They are a brother and sister; they sit side by side on a bed. The boy a blond, is six years old, says the caption, and the girl, brown-hair... - #3
Save:'Frost' by Thomas Bernhard is a deep exploration of human nature and the dark side of the human condition, portrayed through the intense philosophical observations of the characters. The narrative follows a young medical student who embarks on a journey to a mining town to examine and report on a painter named Strauch, who is on the brink of madness. The relationship that develops between the student and Strauch is psychologically astute and engaging, delving into themes of isolation, existentialism, and the complexities of human existence. The writing style is dense, with minimal usage of plot events and imagery, focusing more on heavy philosophies that the characters harbor towards their lives.
- #4
Save:'Exhalation: Stories' by Ted Chiang is a collection of thought-provoking science fiction stories that delve into philosophical questions like free will, consciousness, and the impact of technology on humanity. Chiang's writing style is described as calm, clear, and deeply engaging, allowing the meaning of the stories to shine through the scientific concepts explored. The stories cover a wide range of themes, from time travel to the nature of existence, all tied together by universal questions about humanity and the universe.
The book features a mix of speculative technologies and philosophical undertones, expertly formulated to create compact yet suggestive narratives. Chiang's storytelling is praised for its cleverness without sacrificing the human element of the stories, making readers care about both the characters and the speculative concepts presented. Each story in the collection offers a unique and immersive experience that challenges readers to think deeply about the complex issues explored.
It has long been said that air (which others call argon) is the source of life. This is not in fact the case, and I engrave these words to describe how I came to understand the true source of life and... - #5
Save:'The Marriage of Heaven and Hell' by William Blake is a unique piece of art that combines poetry with illustrations. The work explores themes of contradictions, wisdom, and the duality of good and evil. Through his thought-provoking verses and intricate images, Blake challenges traditional religious beliefs and societal norms. Readers are invited to delve into a world where opposites coexist and where perception is key to understanding the complexities of existence. is a blend of visionary, comic, poetic, and etching elements, creating a multi-dimensional experience for those who engage with it.
As a new heaven is begun, and it is now thirty-three years since its advent: the Eternal Hell revives. And lo! Swedengorg is the Angel sitting at the tomb: his writings are the linen clothes folded up... - #6
Save:'Here' by Richard McGuire is a graphic novel that delves into the history of a specific room over thousands of years, showcasing the evolution of the space and its inhabitants. The narrative unfolds through a series of images depicting different time periods, from prehistoric eras to a distant future, all centered around the same location. The book presents a non-linear and non-chronological storytelling style, offering glimpses into various moments in time that overlap and intertwine, creating a unique exploration of time, memory, and human existence.
The book is praised for its poignant illustrations, thought-provoking concept, and the way it captures the essence of time and change within a fixed space. Readers appreciate the visual storytelling approach used by McGuire, as well as the depth and complexity of the narratives woven throughout the book. The exploration of parallel lives, historical events, and the cyclical nature of time adds a layer of depth to the storytelling, making 'Here' a compelling and immersive reading experience.
- #7
Save:'The Third Eye' by T. Lobsang Rampa is a coming of age novel about a young boy from a high-class family who is thrown out of his house by his stern father to become a monk. He is initiated into the higher order and taught the most secretive occult powers of Tibet. The author writes in great detail, providing factual descriptions of clairvoyant powers and insight into people, based on real adepts. offers a fascinating look into Tibetan philosophy and religion through the eyes of the author, revealing information about human existence and powers which are hard to accept and refute.
The plot of the book revolves around the protagonist's journey into manhood and finding a powerful spiritual connection. Despite initial doubts, readers are drawn into the story, learning about neglected and forgotten powers of humans as universal beings. explores spiritual themes such as aura perception, astral traveling, and introspection, offering a valuable perspective on life's biggest philosophical questions.
“Oe. Oe. Four years old and can’t stay on a horse! You’ll never make a man! What will your noble father say?” With this, Old Tzu gave the pony-and luckless rider-a hearty thwack across the hindquarter... - #8
Save:'God Bless You, Dr. Kevorkian' by Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is a collection of fictional interviews with dead people conducted by the protagonist through managed near-death experiences orchestrated by Dr. Kevorkian. The book is described as a quick and witty read, with Vonnegut's trademark humor shining through in every interview. The premise of the book involves the protagonist visiting the afterlife and engaging in short, humorous interactions with famous historical figures like Hitler, Mary Shelley, and Isaac Asimov.
The writing style of the book is characterized by Vonnegut's concise yet insightful observations on human nature and society. The short length of the book is noted by readers, with some finding it exceptionally short but still enjoyable. Vonnegut's ability to convey profound ideas in a minimalistic manner is highlighted, making the book a thought-provoking and engaging read despite its brevity.
wisdom of its community and mine. It does what no commercial radio or TV station can afford to do any more. WNYC satisfies the people's right to contrasted with, as abject slaves of high-roller public... - #9
Save:'A Very Private Life' by Michael Frayn is a futuristic novel that delves into the themes of human existence, isolation, and societal evolution. The story follows Uncumber, a teenage girl living in a society where physical contact is rare, and individuals lead highly isolated lives. Through Frayn's writing style, which includes a mix of reported speech and future tense narration, readers are taken on a journey that explores the consequences of a technologically advanced yet emotionally detached world. The novel offers a prophetic glimpse into a future where human interactions are mediated through technology, and emotions are controlled through drugs.
The plot of 'A Very Private Life' revolves around Uncumber's encounter with an outsider who speaks a different language. This chance meeting sparks a desire in her to break free from the confines of her isolated existence, leading to a compelling and thought-provoking adventure that offers insights into the insider-outsider dynamics of Frayn's envisioned world. Through the eyes of Uncumber, Frayn skillfully weaves a narrative that not only critiques the increasing artificiality of human life but also delves into deeper questions about identity, connection, and the impact of technological advancements on society.
- #10
Save:'Paris Stories' by Mavis Gallant is a collection of short stories set in Europe, predominantly in Paris, showcasing characters who are lost and displaced, trying to find a sense of attachment and belonging. Gallant's writing style is described as economical, spare, and emotionally precise, evoking deep emotions and experiences with brevity and clarity. The stories are filled with rich details and character sketches, often leaving readers with a profound understanding of the human condition and the complexities of relationships.
It is Sunday morning. They sit in the kitchen, drinking their coffee, slowly, remembering the past. They say the names of people as if they were magic. Peter thinks, Agnes Brusen, but there are hundre...
