Books matching: humor and philosophy
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- #1
Save:Still Life with Woodpecker by Tom Robbins is a whimsical and unconventional love story between a princess and an outlaw. The book explores the theme of making love last, as the central question revolves around the idea of eternal love. Through the quirky characters of Princess Leigh-Cheri and Bernard Wrangler, Robbins weaves a tale filled with humor, philosophy, and social commentary. The writing style is described as poetic, with unique metaphors and insightful theories that challenge traditional storytelling norms.
IN THE LAST QUARTER of the twentieth century, at a time when Western civilization was declining too rapidly for comfort and yet too slowly to be very exciting, much of the world sat on the edge of an ... - #2
Save:The Skin of Our Teeth by Thornton Wilder is a play that follows the unconventional Antrobus family as they navigate through significant historical events, from the ice age to war. The play is known for its innovative approach, combining humor, absurdity, and deep philosophical questions about humanity's struggles and resilience across the ages. Wilder's writing style is described as revolutionary for its time, incorporating audience engagement, actors playing multiple roles, and addressing meta aspects of the play.
- #3
Save:'Sweet Thursday' is a sequel to 'Cannery Row' by John Steinbeck, set in the same locale with the same cast of characters. The book follows Doc's return from World War II, where he is portrayed as a changed and melancholy man. The plot revolves around his friends at the Palace Flophouse and the Bear Flag attempting to come to his rescue with humorous and poignant results. The story is a mixture of humor, philosophy, and warmth, with a focus on character development and relationships in the post-war setting of Cannery Row.
The canneries themselves fought the war by getting the limit taken off fish and catching them all. It was done for patriotic reasons, but that didn’t bring the fish back. As with the oysters in Alice,...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series Cannery Row ) - #4
Save:Manalive by G.K. Chesterton follows the story of Innocent Smith, a larger-than-life and comical character who arrives at Brighton House to awaken the residents to the wonder and joy of life. However, when Smith is accused of serious crimes, the residents must come together to defend his innocence against the backdrop of modern science and psychology. The novel is filled with courtroom dialogues, anecdotes about Smith, and ties to Chestertonian philosophy, creating a unique and thought-provoking narrative that explores themes of humanity, morality, and the essence of existence.
A WIND SPRANG HIGH IN the west, like a wave of unreasonable happiness, and tore eastward across England, trailing with it the frosty scent of forests and the cold intoxication of the sea. In a million... 'Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar' by Thomas Cathcart and Daniel Klein is a fun and entertaining book that uses jokes to explain various philosophical concepts. The book covers a wide range of philosophical ideas in a light-hearted and humorous manner, making it accessible to readers who may not have a background in philosophy. The authors manage to touch on major themes of philosophy through a collection of jokes, providing a gentle introduction to the subject while keeping the readers engaged with witty humor.
The writing style of 'Plato and a Platypus Walk Into a Bar' is described as light, humorous, and informative. The book uses jokes ranging from sophisticated to corny to illustrate different philosophical theories and ideas. Readers appreciate the way the authors blend humor with explanations of complex philosophical concepts, making it an enjoyable and educational read for both philosophy enthusiasts and newcomers to the subject.
Aristotle drew a distinction between essential and accidental properties. The way he put it is that essential properties are those without which a thing wouldn’t be what it is, and accidental properti...- #6
Save:'Blood Sport' by Robert F Jones is a surreal and creative coming of age saga that delves into the male human nature and the human condition. Set in a mythical river valley called Hassayampa, the story follows the bandit Ratanous, also known as Rat Nose, as he navigates through a world filled with rebellion against the laws of nature. The plot is described as one of the most creative and strange, with elements of fantasy that are unique and captivating, challenging traditional genre classifications.
- #7
Save:"Jacques the Fatalist" by Denis Diderot is a novel that follows Jacques and his nameless master as they travel through the French countryside, recounting tales to each other and encountering various adventures and characters along the way. The book is described as a picaresque romp through pre-Revolutionary France, filled with digressions, interruptions, and philosophical musings. The narrative is fragmented, challenging traditional storytelling conventions of the 18th century and questioning ideas of fate, human liberty, and the boundaries of what constitutes a novel.
The writing style of "Jacques the Fatalist" is characterized as a mix of philosophical comedy, stream of consciousness, and postmodernism. The author, Denis Diderot, is praised for his clever parody of narration clichés and his ability to challenge the standards of storytelling in 18th century France. The book is noted for its constant interruptions, disruptions, and recommencements, creating a unique reading experience that blends humor, philosophical discussions, love stories, and social commentary.
JACQUES: Because while I was getting drunk on his bad wine I forgot to water our horses. My father noticed and got angry. I shook my head at him and he took a stick and hit me rather hard across the s... - #8
Save:An alien is sent to Earth to assassinate Cambridge University professor Andrew Martin, who has solved a mathematical equation that could change humanity. However, as the alien inhabits Martin's body, it begins to understand and appreciate human nature, leading to a transformation from loathing to love. The book is a blend of humor, philosophy, and science fiction, offering a unique perspective on humanity through the eyes of an outsider. The writing style is described as witty, insightful, and poignant, with a mix of humor and deep reflections on life and love.
This book, this actual book, is set right here, on Earth. It is about the meaning of life and nothing at all. It is about what it takes to kill somebody, and save them. It is about love and dead poets... - #9
Save:'The Rabbi's Cat' by Joann Sfar is a graphic novel set in 1930's Algeria, following the story of a rabbi's cat who gains the ability to speak after eating the rabbi's parrot. The cat challenges and questions religious beliefs, particularly Judaism, engaging in philosophical debates with the rabbi and his daughter. The book explores themes of faith, identity, family relations, and societal norms through the witty and humorous perspective of the talking cat. The artwork is praised for its beauty, rich colors, and unique style that complements the narrative.
The book consists of three interconnected stories that revolve around the rabbi, his cat, and his daughter, delving into their adventures, travels, and relationships in Algeria and Paris. Through the cat's newfound ability to speak, the narrative unfolds with humor, wisdom, and insightful commentary on religion, philosophy, and cultural conflicts. The storytelling in 'The Rabbi's Cat' is described as charming, deep, and engaging, offering a blend of light-hearted humor and profound reflections on life's complexities.
- #10
Save:"Looking for Alaska" by John Green is a coming-of-age novel that follows Miles Halter as he leaves Florida to attend Culver Creek Preparatory School in Alabama, seeking the Great Perhaps. Miles befriends a group of students, including the enigmatic Alaska Young, and becomes entangled in pranks and love triangles. The story is split between the days before and after a tragic event involving Alaska, exploring themes of friendship, love, loss, and the search for meaning. Green's writing style is praised for its realistic depiction of teenage life, with well-developed characters like Miles, Alaska, and the Colonel, and a unique structure that keeps readers engaged.
The novel is lauded for its powerful storytelling, thought-provoking themes, and emotional impact. It delves into issues like mortality, friendship, love, and self-discovery, offering a moving narrative that resonates with readers. The book's structure, alternating between the days before and after Alaska's death, adds depth to the plot and highlights the characters' growth and complexities. Green's exploration of life and death through memorable quotes, teenage experiences, and philosophical discussions in a boarding school setting creates a compelling and relatable story.
FLORIDA WAS PLENTY HOT, certainly, and humid, too. Hot enough that your clothes stuck to you like Scotch tape, and sweat dripped like tears from your forehead into your eyes. But it was only hot outsi...
