Books matching: metaphysical questions
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'The Dark Eidolon and Other Fantasies' by S.T. Joshi, Clark Ashton Smith is a collection of short stories, prose poetry, and poetry by the author. The book showcases Smith's dark fantasy fiction style, filled with exotic language, mind-bending locations, and staggering imagination. The stories range from horror to fantasy, with some echoing the cosmic horror genre popularized by Lovecraft. Smith's writing style is described as intricate, complex, and filled with older vocabulary, offering a unique reading experience to those who enjoy delving into the fantastical worlds he creates.
Smith’s earliest book publications were volumes of poetry. The volumes of poetry published in his lifetime have been cited in the Introduction. After his death, his literary executor, Roy A. Squires, ...- #2
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 ... - #3
"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... 'Physics and Philosophy: The Revolution in Modern Science' by Werner Heisenberg is a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between physics and philosophy. The book delves into the fundamental principles of quantum mechanics and relativity, challenging traditional notions of reality and objectivity. Heisenberg skillfully weaves together historical perspectives, scientific theories, and philosophical musings to present a comprehensive view of the evolution of modern science. Through a combination of historical context and theoretical discourse, Heisenberg navigates complex topics such as uncertainty, complementarity, and the limitations of human language in describing quantum phenomena.
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Ring Around the Sun by Clifford D. Simak is a science fiction novel set in the 1950s that follows the protagonist, Jay Vickers, as he discovers a world filled with fantastic new products and strange occurrences. The book delves into interesting ideas, social commentary, and unpredictable plot twists, all while exploring themes of parallel worlds, mutants, and the concept of multiple dimensions. Simak's workmanlike writing style, blending seamlessly with elements of fantasy, creates a unique adventure that challenges readers to think beyond the surface elements and appreciate the depth of the author's ideas.
He hung up the phone and got the paper off the stoop. At his desk, he laid down the paper and picked up the sheaf of manuscript, holding it in his hand, feeling the thickness of it and the weight of i... - #6
'What the Buddha Taught' by Walpola Rahula is a concise and informative guide that lays out the basic teachings of Buddhism. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the relevance of Buddhism in modern times to the core doctrines of the Theravada Buddhist tradition. Rahula draws on the words spoken by the Buddha to convey the true nature of Buddhist wisdom, providing readers with a comprehensive introduction to Buddhist philosophy and way of life.
Among the founders of religions the Buddha (if we are permitted to call him the founder of a religion in the popular sense of the term) was the only teacher who did not claim to be other than a human ... - #7
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.
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In "Summerland" by Hannu Rajaniemi, the story unfolds in an alternate 1930s world where the discovery of the afterlife and the development of aetheric technology have transformed Britain and the Soviet Union into great powers. The British secret service operates in both the living world and the afterlife, known as Summerland, creating a spy thriller with ghostly agents and otherworldly tech. The narrative is a mix of espionage and fantasy, with a strong female lead navigating a world where the living and the dead intersect, leading to conflicts that mirror those in the real world. The plot is filled with twists, secrets, and mysteries, keeping readers engaged with its imaginative world-building and unique blend of genres.
The book delves into questions about beliefs regarding the soul, the afterlife, and the ethics of immortality, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of metaphysical concepts. Rajaniemi's writing style combines elements of spy tradecraft with urban fantasy tropes, creating a page-turner that is emotionally and politically complex. The characters, living and dead, are well-developed and the storyline is tight, drawing readers into a world where espionage and supernatural elements intertwine, resulting in a novel that challenges traditional genre boundaries and offers a fresh take on alternate history.
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The Rebel by Albert Camus is an essay that serves as a hymn of life and radical thinking, criticizing nihilism and totalitarianism. Camus explores the theme of revolt throughout history, discussing the reasons behind human rebellion against unfairness and oppression. Through historical and philosophical examples, he delves into the concept of rebellion and revolution, highlighting the importance of standing up against injustice and tyranny. The book also examines the motivations behind rebellion, the moral challenges it presents, and the ethical systems through which rebels justify their actions.
What is a rebel? A man who says no, but whose refusal does not imply a renunciation. He is also a man who says yes, from the moment he makes his first gesture of rebellion. A slave who has taken order... - #10
'I'm Thinking of Ending Things' by Iain Reid follows a young woman on a road trip with her boyfriend to meet his parents, contemplating ending their relationship. As the journey progresses, unsettling events unfold, including mysterious phone calls from her own number and a sense of foreboding. The narrative builds tension through eerie moments and a creeping feeling that something terrible is on the horizon, reminiscent of classic horror elements.
Reid's writing style in this psychological thriller is described as atmospheric, disturbing, and mind-bending. The story keeps readers engaged with unexpected twists and a sense of unease that lingers throughout the book. The author skillfully weaves a plot that blurs the lines between reality and perception, leading to an ending that leaves readers questioning what is real and what is imagined.
The road is mostly empty. It’s quiet around here. Vacant. More so than anticipated. So much to see but not many people, not many buildings or houses. Sky. Trees. Fields. Fences. The road and its grave...