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Books matching: nihilistic

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  1. #1

    The Stranger by Albert Camus
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    "The Stranger" by Albert Camus is a novel that delves into existentialism through the story of Meursault, a man who seems indifferent and detached from the world around him. The plot follows Meursault as he navigates through life events such as his mother's death, a murder he commits, and a trial he faces, all while displaying a lack of emotion and connection with those around him. The writing style is described as choppy, matter-of-fact, and detached, reflecting the character's own demeanor and emphasizing the themes of absurdity and alienation.

    Camus' exploration of the absurdity of life and society's inability to understand a man like Meursault forms the core of the narrative. Through vivid storytelling and a compelling portrayal of existential themes, the book challenges readers to reflect on concepts of meaning, morality, and the human condition. The character of Meursault serves as a vehicle for Camus to question societal norms and beliefs, ultimately leading to a poignant exploration of existential philosophy and the complexities of human existence.

    The old people’s home is at Marengo, about eighty kilometers from Algiers, I’ll take the two o’clock bus and get there in the afternoon. That way I can be there for the vigil and come back tomorrow ni...

  2. #2

    The Conspiracy Against the Human Race by Thomas Ligotti
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    'The Conspiracy Against the Human Race' by Thomas Ligotti delves into the horror that consciousness brings about, presenting a pessimistic view on life, mankind, and the universe. Ligotti explores the idea that human existence is a curse, with consciousness being a detriment rather than a benefit. Through references to various philosophers, mystics, and neuroscientists, Ligotti argues that life is inherently meaningless and existence is a painful cul de sac. serves as a philosophical exploration of the horror that comes from being aware of our mortality and the futility of seeking meaning in an indifferent universe.

    To avoid all possibility of false appearances, I should disclose up front to being a writer of supernatural horror stories. Strictly speaking, then, The Conspiracy against the Human Race represents mo...

  3. #3

    Notes from Underground by Fyodor Dostoyevsky
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    'Notes from Underground' by Fyodor Dostoyevsky is a novella that delves into the existential crisis of the unnamed protagonist, referred to as the Underground Man. The story is presented in a diary form, exploring the protagonist's self-loathing, bitterness, and feelings of insignificance. The narrative is a mix of philosophical musings, societal critique, and introspective reflections, showcasing the protagonist's struggles with alienation and his disdain for societal norms. Dostoyevsky's writing style is described as beautiful yet painful, capturing the essence of a man living a life of terrible insignificance.

    The novella is divided into two parts, with the first part focusing on the Underground Man's philosophical ramblings and the second part providing a narrative that sheds light on the protagonist's background and descent into the underground. Dostoyevsky weaves themes of free will, existentialism, and the human condition throughout the narrative, presenting a character who grapples with his own sense of identity and purpose. The book is praised for its smooth writing style, compelling storytelling, and the profound insights it offers into the complexities of human nature and societal conventions.

    I am a sick person . . . A spiteful one. An unattractive person, too. I think my liver is diseased. But I don’t give a damn about my disease and in fact I don’t even know what’s wrong with me. I do no...

  4. #4

    No Longer Human by Osamu Dazai
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    "No Longer Human" by Osamu Dazai is a bleak and introspective novel that delves into the life of Oba Yozo, a character struggling with feelings of alienation and disconnection from society. The book explores themes of loneliness, suicide, and existential dread through Yozo's eyes as he navigates a world where he feels like an outsider. The writing style is described as powerful and impactful, with a narrative that captures the protagonist's internal turmoil and despair in a poignant manner.

    I can’t even guess myself what it must be to live the life of a human being. I was born in a village in the Northeast, and it wasn’t until I was quite big that I saw my first train. I climbed up and d...

  5. #5
    Fight Club
    Book 1 in the series:Fight Club

    Fight Club - Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk
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    Fight Club by Chuck Palahniuk is a gripping exploration of masculinity, materialism, and the human condition. The novel delves into the expectations placed on men in society, offering a compelling examination of reality and existence. With a plot twist that shocks readers and characters that are both unlikeable and unforgettable, the book presents a dark and thought-provoking narrative. Palahniuk's writing style is described as well done, with a mix of intense moments, wit, and vivid storytelling that haunts readers long after they finish the book.

    TYLER GETS ME a job as a waiter, after that Tyler’s pushing a gun in my mouth and saying, the first step to eternal life is you have to die. For a long time though, Tyler and I were best friends. Peop...

  6. #6

    Journey to the End of the Night by Louis-Ferdinand Celine
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    "Journey to the End of the Night" by Louis-Ferdinand Celine is a dark, misanthropic novel that follows the protagonist, Ferdinand Bardamu, through various stages of his life, from fighting in World War I to traveling through French colonial Africa, Detroit, and Paris. The narrative is marked with Celine's disgust at humanity's folly, malice, and greed, while also incorporating darkly comic elements and occasional satirical asides. The writing style is described as dense, harsh, and filled with cynical aphorisms that demand attention, creating enduring images that reflect the bitterness and rage at senseless slaughter and environmental destruction.

    Here's how it started. I'd never said a word. Not one word. It was Arthur Ganate[3] that made me speak up. Arthur was a friend from med school. So we meet on the Place Clichy. It was after breakfast. ...

  7. #7

    My Year of Rest and Relaxation by Ottessa Moshfegh
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    'My Year of Rest and Relaxation' by Ottessa Moshfegh follows an unnamed narrator, a young woman in New York City who, after inheriting her parents' wealth, decides to spend a year in a drug-induced sleep, cutting off contact with the world. The book delves into themes of depression, escapism, and societal disdain, as the narrator navigates a year of numbness and self-imposed isolation, reflecting on relationships, privilege, and the pursuit of rest and relaxation. Moshfegh's writing style is described as dark, raw, and honest, capturing the protagonist's apathy and vulnerability, while also maintaining a sense of humor and quirkiness throughout the narrative.

    WHENEVER I WOKE UP, night or day, I’d shuffle through the bright marble foyer of my building and go up the block and around the corner where there was a bodega that never closed. I’d get two large cof...

  8. #8

    Nothing by Janne Teller
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    'Nothing' by Janne Teller follows the story of seventh grader Pierre Anthon who declares that life has no meaning and climbs a plum tree, challenging his classmates to prove him wrong. As the classmates gather objects that hold personal significance to them, the stakes escalate, leading to horrifying sacrifices and a descent into a Lord of the Flies-esque chaos. The book delves into themes of nihilism, existentialism, and the search for meaning in a stark, cold setting, with elaborate descriptions and a thought-provoking narrative style that leaves readers questioning the purpose of life.

    And although the teachers had a job on their hands tidying up after Pierre Anthon in the classroom as well as in our heads, part of Pierre Anthon remained stuck inside of us. Maybe that was why it all...

  9. #9

    Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre
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    Nausea by Jean-Paul Sartre is a philosophical novel that delves into the existential crisis of the protagonist, Antoine Roquentin. The book is written in a diary-like format, detailing Roquentin's thoughts and experiences as he grapples with the meaninglessness of life and his own existence. The narrative explores themes of existentialism, self-reflection, and the struggle to find purpose in a world devoid of inherent meaning. Sartre's writing style is introspective and contemplative, presenting a deep dive into the inner workings of the protagonist's mind.

    I think I’m the one who has changed: that’s the simplest solution. Also the most unpleasant. But I must finally realize that I am subject to these sudden transformations. The thing is that I rarely th...

  10. #10

    The Trouble with Being Born by Emil M. Cioran
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    Emil Cioran's 'The Trouble With Being Born' is a collection of brilliantly pessimistic aphorisms that delve into existential musings on mortality, the human condition, and the recalcitrant nature of existence. The book presents a unique blend of self-consciously absurd pessimistic humor, reminiscent of the modern goth subculture, intertwined with profound reflections on life and death. Cioran's writing style is described as beautiful prose that rivals the likes of Montaigne, Dostoevsky, and Sartre, offering readers a cornucopia of pessimistic brightness through sardonic and enigmatic wisdom.

    The central argument of the book revolves around the idea that the problem lies not in the act of dying but in the act of being born, exploring themes of existential philosophy, mortality, and the inherent struggles of human existence. Through clever aphorisms and a relentless exploration of pessimism, Cioran challenges readers to confront the fundamental questions surrounding life, death, and the meaning of existence, presenting a thought-provoking and introspective journey through the complexities of human consciousness.


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