Books matching: search for meaning
100 result(s)
Readers found "The Power of Meaning: Crafting a Life That Matters" by Emily Esfahani Smith to be a thought-provoking exploration of the importance of finding meaning in life. The book delves into the four pillars of meaning - belonging, purpose, storytelling, and transcendence - and how they contribute to creating a fulfilling and significant life. Through real-life examples, historical references, and scientific research, the author guides readers on a journey towards understanding the difference between happiness and meaning, emphasizing the value of pursuing a life rich in depth and community.
On a fall day in 1930, the historian and philosopher Will Durant was raking leaves in the yard of his home in Lake Hill, New York, when a well-dressed man walked up to him. The man told Durant that he...- #2
'Gods Without Men' by Hari Kunzru is a multi-layered novel that weaves together various narratives set in different time periods and locations, all connected by a mysterious rock formation called 'The Pinnacles'. The book explores themes of interculturalism, faith, mysticism, and the search for meaning in a fractured world. Readers are taken on a journey through different eras, encountering characters like a modern New York couple dealing with their autistic son's disappearance, a group in the 1950s seeking wisdom from alien races, and a commune in the 1970s exploring spirituality through drugs and extraterrestrial beliefs. Kunzru's writing style is described as crisp, punchy, and ambitious, with clever interlinking of sections and convincing characterizations that lead to a satisfying whole.
First time Schmidt saw the Pinnacles he knew it was the place. Three columns of rock shot up like the tentacles of some ancient creature, weathered feelers probing the sky. He ran a couple of tests, u... - #3
"Modern Man in Search of a Soul" by C.G. Jung delves into the psychological exploration of the human psyche, offering insightful perspectives on the struggles individuals face in finding meaning and navigating the complexities of life. Through a series of essays, Jung touches upon various themes such as religion, dreams, archetypes, and the collective unconscious, providing a unique blend of psychology, philosophy, and spirituality. The book is written in a concise yet illustrative style, drawing from Jung's experiences with patients and his pioneering concepts in analytical psychology.
The use of dream-analysis in psychotherapy is still a much-debated question. Many practitioners find it indispensable in the treatment of neuroses, and ascribe as much importance to the psychic activi... - #4
A Burnt-Out Case by Graham Greene follows the story of Querry, a world-famous architect who, feeling burnt out and disillusioned with life, seeks solace in a leper colony in the Congo. Despite his attempts to escape his past and live a quiet life of service, Querry is constantly confronted with his previous fame and struggles with his own beliefs and identity. The novel explores themes of faith, self-discovery, and the complexities of human relationships, all set against the backdrop of a remote leper colony overseen by Catholic missionaries. Greene's writing style is described as poignant, introspective, and filled with symbolism, providing a deep and thought-provoking reading experience.
The cabin-passenger wrote in his diary a parody of Descartes: ‘I feel discomfort, therefore I am alive,’ then sat pen in hand with no more to record. The captain in a white soutane stood by the open w... - #5
The novel 'The Moviegoer' by Walker Percy follows the protagonist Binx Bolling, a young man living in New Orleans, who finds solace in movies and struggles with existential questions. Set during Mardi Gras week, Binx's introspective journey through alienation, faith, and the search for meaning is intertwined with his relationships and encounters in post-WWII New Orleans. The author's interest in existential philosophy is evident as Binx navigates his way through a world where reality and fantasy blur, leading to a deeper exploration of the human condition.
Percy's writing style in 'The Moviegoer' is described as exquisite, thought-provoking, and evocative, with a focus on character study and exploring existential themes. The novel presents a quiet yet striking narrative, filled with elegant prose that captures the complexities of Binx's inner struggles and the mundane extraordin or extraordinary world around him.
THIS MORNING I GOT a note from my aunt asking me to come for lunch. I know what this means. Since I go there every Sunday for dinner and today is Wednesday, it can mean only one thing: she wants to ha... "When Bad Things Happen to Good People" by Harold S. Kushner is a poignant exploration of grief, suffering, and the role of God in the face of tragedy. Through personal experiences and thoughtful reflections, Kushner delves into the complexities of human emotions and the search for meaning in times of despair. The book offers a compassionate examination of how individuals grapple with loss, challenging traditional beliefs and offering a fresh perspective on finding comfort and strength in the midst of adversity.
There is only one question which really matters: why do bad things happen to good people? All other theological conversation is intellectually diverting; somewhat like doing the crossword puzzle in th...- #7
The Razor's Edge by W. Somerset Maugham is a character-driven drama that delves into themes of self-discovery, existential struggles, and the search for meaning in life. The story follows the protagonist's journey of self-discovery, intertwined with the lives of other characters, as they navigate through different experiences and perspectives. The writing style is described as beautiful and philosophical, with deep insights into human nature and existence.
I have never begun a novel with more misgiving. If I call it a novel it is only because I don't know what elseto call it. I have little story to tell and I end neither with a death nor a marriage. Dea... - #8
A Tokyo entrepreneur embarks on a bizarre quest to find a sheep with immense power, leading him to remote locations and uncovering the mysteries surrounding his friend's death. The narrative weaves the strange into the everyday, presenting themes of disconnectedness, acceptance of mediocrity, and the nature of change, all while blurring the lines between reality and the paranormal.
The day of the funeral, I took a streetcar from Waseda. I got off near the end of the line. The map proved about as helpful as a globe would have been. I ended up buying pack after pack of cigarettes,... - #9
Religion for Atheists by Alain de Botton explores the importance of religious principles and practices in secular society, arguing that they are essential for cultivating a sense of community, kindness, and moral values. De Botton challenges the secular trend towards individualism and marketization, advocating for the adoption of religious rituals and teachings to address societal deficits in compassion and community. Through a series of essays, he delves into the benefits of religious practices such as mass congregations, role models offered by religious figures, and the value of education for emotional and intellectual growth.
1. The most boring and unproductive question one can ask of any religion is whether or not it is true – in terms of being handed down from heaven to the sound of trumpets and supernaturally governed b... - #10
Niels Lyhne is a novel that delves into the life of its protagonist, Niels Lyhne, from his upbringing in a constrained Nordic culture to his adulthood marked by a search for meaning through art and romantic love. The book explores themes of religious faith and its loss, the conflict between romanticism and realism, and the protagonist's journey towards self-discovery. Written by Danish author Jens Peter Jacobsen, the novel is known for its passionate discussions on nature, love, faith, and the beauty of life, all while maintaining a lyrical and intense writing style.
She had the black shining eyes of the Blid family, with fine, straight eyebrows; she had their strongly contoured nose, their powerful jaw and full lips. She had also inherited the odd, painfully sens...