Books matching: philosophical tone
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- #1
Save:'Hestia' by C.J. Cherryh is set on a colony far from Earth struggling to survive and facing challenges from the native population. The story follows Sam Merrit, an engineer sent to complete a dam project, who becomes entangled in a complex web of relationships with the locals, particularly a young native woman named Sazhje. The narrative explores themes of colonialism, cultural clashes, and the impact of technology on traditional societies, all while delving into the protagonist's moral dilemmas and choices. Cherryh's writing style paints a vivid picture of the alien world and its inhabitants, setting the stage for a gripping interstellar adventure.
The shuttle was visible through the rain-spattered glass, an alien shape in New Hope, towering sleek and silver among brown, unpainted buildings. It rested here only briefly: Adam Jones was in orbit a... - #2
Save:Howards End is a novel set in Edwardian England that revolves around the lives of three families - the Wilcoxes, the Schlegel sisters Margaret and Helen, and the Basts - whose fates intertwine due to a series of coincidences. The story explores themes of family, morality, friendship, love, forgiveness, and social divides. Forster creates memorable characters like Margaret, an admirable and modern lady, and delves into the complexities of relationships and societal expectations.
The narrative of Howards End is praised for its insightful portrayal of English life during the post-Victorian era, showcasing the clash between social classes and values. The story unfolds at the Hertfordshire estate of Howards End, symbolizing the future of England itself, as characters navigate through conflicts, misunderstandings, forgiveness, and the encroachment of modern life on traditional values.
“It isn’t going to be what we expected. It is old and little, and altogether delightful—red brick. We can scarcely pack in as it is, and the dear knows what will happen when Paul (younger son) arrives... - #3
Save:'Vita Nuova' by Dante Alighieri is a significant piece of literature that delves into themes of love, awakening, and transcendence. Dante's exploration of poetry in this work is groundbreaking, showcasing his innovative approach to storytelling and his deep introspection on the nature of love and life. Through a blend of prose and poetry, Dante reflects on his own experiences and emotions, offering readers a glimpse into his personal journey of growth and self-discovery. The historical significance of the book adds to its allure, despite some readers finding the story to be somewhat tedious at times.
II, 1: the heaven of the light: I.e. the heaven of the sun. According to pre-Copernican astronomy, the earth was the centre of the universe. Around it circled seven planets, of which the sun was the f... - #4
Save:'Sculpting in Time' by Andrei Tarkovsky is a book where the author shares his ideas on filmmaking, focusing on the rules and methods he set for himself in creating his movies. Tarkovsky delves into the nature and purpose of art, particularly in cinema, emphasizing the importance of observation and the experience of the world. The book explores Tarkovsky's views on the inner life, psychological truths of characters, and spirituality in art, drawing parallels with other art forms like architecture and discussing the significance of simplicity and patience in artistic expression.
The book also delves into Tarkovsky's critical opinions on various aspects of filmmaking, including his thoughts on time as the primary medium of film, the differences between cinema and other arts, and the challenges of connecting with an audience without compromising artistic integrity. Tarkovsky's deep reflections on memory, symbolism, and the purpose of true art provide readers with profound insights into his creative philosophy and the essence of cinematic expression.
- #5
Save:'Discourse on Colonialism' by Aime Cesaire is a powerful critique of colonialism and its resulting ills. Cesaire, born in the Caribbean and educated in France, presents anti-colonial views that challenge the European perspectives on invasion, subjugation, and cultural denigration of the New World. The book delves into the deeply racist and violent attitudes of the Western world towards the colonized, drawing parallels between French colonialism in Africa and Nazi attitudes towards Jews. Cesaire's work is considered foundational to later critical race theories and postcolonialism, emphasizing the need for a complete overthrow of racist colonial systems.
The fact is that the so-called European civilization—“Western” civilization—as it has been shaped by two centuries of bourgeois rule, is incapable of solving the two major problems to which its existe... - #6
Save:"Desert of the Heart" by Jane Rule is a classic lesbian romance novel set in Reno, Nevada, where Evelyn Hall seeks a divorce and meets Ann, leading to a reevaluation of her life. The book delves deep into the characters' thoughts and fears, providing a rounded view of their relationship and exploring themes of identity, love, and marriage. The writing style is described as subtle, philosophical, and beautiful, with characters that readers rooted for and engaged with.
CONVENTIONS, LIKE CLICHÉS, HAVE a way of surviving their own usefulness. They are then excused or defended as the idioms of living. For everyone, foreign by birth or by nature, convention is a mark of... - #7
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... - #8
Save:"Dawn" by Elie Wiesel is a riveting and emotional story that follows the journey of a Holocaust survivor named Elisha as he transitions from a victim to an aggressor. The book delves into the moral and philosophical implications of revenge, exploring the inner turmoil faced by Elisha as he grapples with the decision of taking a life of an enemy. Written from the perspective of a survivor, the narrative focuses on the themes of retribution, moral dilemmas, and the haunting legacy of the Holocaust.
Elie Wiesel masterfully crafts a suspenseful and thought-provoking novel that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Through his poignant writing style, Wiesel portrays the complexities of human emotions, the struggles of confronting one's beliefs, and the profound impact of historical atrocities on individuals. "Dawn" offers a gripping portrayal of Elisha's internal conflicts and raises poignant questions about justice, morality, and the enduring scars of war.
Standing near the window I looked out at the transparent twilight whose descent made the city seem silent, motionless, unreal, and very far away. Tomorrow, I thought for the hundredth time, I shall ki...
(Also, see 100 recommendations for the series The Night Trilogy ) - #9
Save:'The Collector' by John Fowles is a dark psychological thriller that tells the story of Frederick, a withdrawn and unloved man who collects butterflies and becomes fixated on an art student named Miranda. After winning a lottery, Frederick kidnaps Miranda and keeps her captive in the basement of his house, hoping for their love to blossom in isolation. The narrative alternates between Frederick's perspective, justifying his actions, and Miranda's point of view as she tries to escape from her captor's clutches.
The book explores themes of obsession, captivity, and the complexity of human relationships. It delves into the minds of both the kidnapper and the victim, offering a chilling portrayal of psychological manipulation and the blurred lines between love and control. The slow-building tension and the shift in narrative perspectives create a sense of dread and unease, making 'The Collector' a compelling and disturbing read.
WHEN she was home from her boarding-school I used to see her almost every day sometimes, because their house was right opposite the Town Hall Annexe. She and her younger sister used to go in and out a... - #10
Save:'Mr g: A Novel About The Creation' by Alan Lightman explores the tale of Mr g, a godlike figure who wakes up in the Void and decides to create the universe. He is accompanied by his Aunt Penelope and Uncle Deva as he sets in motion the laws of nature and watches life evolve, pondering concepts of evil and suffering. Through a mix of physics and spiritual longing, the book posits a fantastical story of creation and life, blending science and philosophy in a unique way. The story delves into the creation of the universe, the development of galaxies, stars, planets, and the emergence of intelligent life, all while exploring deep questions of existence.
The author, Alan Lightman, presents a version of the creation tale that intertwines science and spirituality, offering a thought-provoking narrative that blends fact, humor, and philosophy. weaves together themes of creation, the nature of consciousness, and the coexistence of science and spirituality, inviting readers to consider the mysteries of the universe in a new light.
Not much was happening at that time. As a matter of fact, time didn’t exist. Nor space. When you looked out into the Void, you were really looking at nothing more than your own thought. And if you tri...
