Books matching: existential questions
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Save:Either a masterpiece or a maddening riddle - The Magus is a wild, trippy, polarizing trip through sun-soaked enigma. If you like beautiful prose and being kept off-balance, give it a try; if you demand clear answers and sympathetic characters, proceed with caution.
The Magus by John Fowles is a complex and mysterious novel set in Greece, following the story of Nicholas Urfe, a self-absorbed Englishman who takes a teaching position on a Greek island. Nicholas finds himself entangled in a series of mind games and deceit orchestrated by the eccentric millionaire Maurice Conchis. The plot twists and turns, blurring the lines between reality and illusion, questioning themes of freedom, power, knowledge, and love. The writing style is described as beautifully written, suspenseful, and engaging, with a mix of psychological mind games and supernatural events that keep the reader intrigued.
I was born in 1927, the only child of middle-class parents, both English, and themselves born in the grotesquely elongated shadow, which they never rose sufficiently above history to leave, of that mo...1965•666 pages - #2
Save:Distinctly weird, haunting sci-fi for fans of poetic, experimental narratives - utterly original and fascinating, but may leave some readers cold or perplexed.
The Employees by Olga Ravn is a science fiction novella set on a spaceship manned by both humans and humanoid employees. The story unfolds through recorded statements taken during an investigation into an upheaval on the ship caused by the crew's discovery of alien lifeforms on a distant planet. The narrative is presented in an epistolary format, with snippets of interviews revealing the crew's attachment to the aliens and their struggles to balance productivity with emotional yearnings for their past lives on Earth.
The book delves into existential questions about the nature of humanity and aliveness, exploring themes of identity, relationships, and the impact of the unknown on individuals. The writing style is described as unique, fragmentary, and thought-provoking, with a minimalist design that complements the zen-like oddness of the story and characters.
September 2020•141 pages - #3
Save:'On Green Dolphin Street' by Sebastian Faulks is a novel set in the late 1950s and early 1960s, primarily in Washington, D.C. It revolves around an adulterous affair between Mary, a British woman married to a diplomat, and Frank, an American newspaper reporter. The story delves into themes of love, betrayal, existential questions, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative moves between different countries but focuses more on the emotional turmoil and internal conflicts of the characters rather than external events. Faulks' writing style is described as elegant and engaging, with a focus on character interactions and vivid descriptions of the settings.
THE VAN DER LINDENS’ house was distinguished from the others on the street by the creeper that covered half the front, running up to the children’s rooms beneath the eaves, where at night the glow fro...1999•368 pages - #4
Save:"Wrong Divinity: Oh Sht! I Fcking Hate Spiders!" is an engaging LitRPG novel that follows the journey of an ordinary protagonist who finds himself thrust into a new world filled with challenges and adventures. The narrative blends fantasy elements with gaming mechanics, allowing readers to experience the protagonist's growth and struggles in a unique setting. While the plot features high stakes and a fast pace, some readers noted that the character development could benefit from more depth, particularly for side characters who could enhance the story further. The writing style is described as polished and mature, with a good balance of humor and engaging storytelling that keeps the reader entertained throughout.
The author employs irreverent humor and relatable character traits to create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers. The protagonist's journey is marked by both luck and plot armor, which leads to mixed feelings about the authenticity of his victories. Readers appreciate the thoughtful exploration of fantasy tropes and the protagonist's relatable flaws, making the story feel more grounded. Despite some narrative flaws, the book has been positively received for its ability to entertain while addressing deeper themes, leaving readers eager for a sequel and continued character development.
Dhane sucked in a breath of stale, cold air. It was damn freezing in here! A pitch-black place filled with others, noticeable by their breathing and shivering. One girl was crying about a killer clown...January 2021•366 pages A fascinating blend of history, legend, and philosophy - a true literary adventure for deep thinkers and lovers of epic tales, though its vintage style won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.
'My First Two Thousand Years' is a novel that delves into the legend of the Wandering Jew, Cartaphilus, who was cursed to live until the return of Jesus. The story follows Cartaphilus as he encounters famous historical figures throughout the ages, providing a unique perspective on religion, philosophy, and history. The writing style is described as thought-provoking, rambunctious, and picaresque, immersing the reader in a narrative that brings historical figures to life and poses profound existential questions.
The central theme of the book revolves around Cartaphilus' eternal quest for truth and meaning in his existence as he navigates through centuries witnessing the rise and fall of civilizations, religions, and great historical events. The novel captures the essence of the Christian legend of the Wandering Jew, exploring profound questions about life, suffering, happiness, and the search for the divine, all while providing an engaging storyline that spans over two thousand years.
January 1928•512 pages- #6
Save:A bold, idea-packed space opera - clever, chaotic, and sometimes confusing. Worth reading for the imagination and wit, especially if you like your sci-fi with a philosophical and satirical edge.
Newton's Wake is a space opera that delves into a future where AI has evolved beyond human comprehension, leaving humanity to navigate the consequences. The story follows a clan of Scottish mercenaries controlling wormholes for faster-than-light travel, facing challenges as their monopoly is threatened. The book explores grand themes such as time, space, life transcendence, and the conflict between artificial intelligences and human communities, all wrapped in a fast-moving and surprising plot.
As soon as she stepped through the gate Lucinda Carlyle knew the planet had been taken, and knew it would be worth taking back. It bore the thumbprints of hurried terraforming: bluish grass and moss,...June 2004•361 pages - #7
Save:A Confession is a brief but powerful dive into Tolstoy’s crisis of meaning and rediscovery of faith. Introspective, searching, and deeply human - best suited for readers who enjoy philosophical musings and spiritual quests.
'A Confession' by Leo Tolstoy is a deeply introspective and philosophical exploration of the author's journey towards faith and meaning in life. Through his candid reflections, Tolstoy delves into his struggles with existential questions, his doubts, and his ultimate search for purpose. The book is a unique blend of personal confession, spiritual exploration, and philosophical musings, offering readers a glimpse into Tolstoy's innermost thoughts and struggles with faith and reason.
I was christened and educated in the faith of the Orthodox Greek Church; I was taught it in my childhood, and I learned it in my youth. Nevertheless, at eighteen years of age, when I quit the universi...1882•111 pages - #8
Save:A deep and challenging classic that rewards patient readers seeking insight on how to face existential anxiety with faith and courage - just be prepared for some seriously heavy philosophical lifting.
'The Courage to Be' by Paul Tillich delves into the dilemma of modern man and offers a way to conquer the problem of anxiety. Through a chronological exploration of the concept of courage from ancient philosophers to modern existential literature, Tillich builds a compelling argument for facing existential dread with absolute faith and the courage to choose life. He discusses the impact of anxiety on culture, the struggle against self-objectification, and the necessity of doubt within faith. Tillich's writing style is described as erudite and artful, with a focus on dissecting wisdom, death, mysticism, fear, guilt, and the history of courage itself.
The same methodological approach is made to what I shall call democratic conformism. Its most characteristic actualization has taken place in present-day America, but its roots go far back into the Eu...January 1952•214 pages - #9
Save:Mysterious, beautifully illustrated, and endlessly thought-provoking - a perfect poetry book for open minds and curious hearts.
The Book of Questions by William O'Daly and Pablo Neruda is a collection of 70 poetic questions that offer a blend of whimsy, existential ideas, and philosophical musings. The book features beautiful illustrations by Paloma Valdivia and is presented in both English and Spanish, making it a visually appealing and thought-provoking read. Readers find themselves contemplating a wide range of topics, from childhood memories to the nature of existence, as they navigate through Neruda's enigmatic and multi-faceted poems.
1974•92 pages - #10
Save:Poetic, peculiar, and powerfully moving - a zombie story for anyone who loves exploring grief and identity in gorgeous, unexpected ways. Not your average apocalyptic tale, and worth the quick, memorable read.
It Lasts Forever and Then It’s Over by Anne de Marcken is a unique novella that explores the themes of grief and identity within a post-apocalyptic zombie narrative. The story follows a woman who has recently become a zombie, reflecting on her memories and emotions as she wanders through a haunting, surreal world. The writing is lyrical and atmospheric, beautifully capturing the absurdity of her situation while delving into deep feelings of sadness and longing.
The book engages in dark humor and profound reflections on life and loss. It examines the main character's disassociation and the strange horror of continuing to live after losing someone dear. Although some readers found the narrative confusing and the plot loosely structured, the emotional depth resonated with many. It’s a quick read, often leaving readers deep in thought, making it a compelling choice for those interested in a different take on the zombie genre.
I lost my left arm today. It came off clean at the shoulder. Janice 2 picked it up and brought it back to the hotel. I would have thought it would affect my balance more than it has. It is like gettin...March 2024
