Author
Horace Fletcher
1849-1919
Horace Fletcher (1849-1919) is a public-domain author available on Rivro. Read free books, explore subjects, and discover related classics.
WikipediaBooks by Horace Fletcher
The A.B.-Z. of our own nutrition
"The A.B.-Z. of Our Own Nutrition" by Horace Fletcher is a scientific publication written in the early 20th century. The book focuses on the principles of nutrition and how to achieve optimal health through proper eating habits and understanding dietary needs. It begins by proposing a method for economic nutrition, emphasizing the importance of chewing food thoroughly and being mindful of one's appetite in order to maintain health. The opening of the text discusses the vital questions around eating habits, such as whether we consume too much food, how to eat right without sacrificing enjoyment, and the potential for increased energy and health. It introduces the author's personal journey toward better nutrition by learning from historical figures like Luigi Cornaro, who practiced temperance and demonstrated the power of moderation. The introduction sets the stage for a broader discourse on nutrition, supported by scientific experimentation and the involvement of medical authorities, thereby establishing a link between diet and overall well-being.
Fletcherism: What It Is; Or, How I Became Young at Sixty
"Fletcherism: What It Is; Or, How I Became Young at Sixty" by Horace Fletcher is a health and nutrition guide written in the early 20th century. This work explores the principles of "Fletcherism," a dietary philosophy emphasizing the importance of thorough mastication (chewing) to improve digestion and overall health. The author shares his personal journey from poor health in his forties to a revitalizing transformation through his nutritional practices, which he believes can benefit anyone seeking a healthier and happier life. At the start of the book, Fletcher details his struggles with health issues at age forty, including obesity and frequent illnesses, and how these challenges led him on a quest for better nutrition. He recounts the moment he decided to change his lifestyle after being declined for life insurance, realizing he needed to understand and correct his dietary habits. Drawing inspiration from various sources, including philosophical insights on eating and digestion, Fletcher introduces the Five Principles of Fletcherism: waiting for a true appetite, eating what appeals most, extracting maximum taste, enjoying the experience, and trusting nature to guide nutritional needs. His narrative sets the stage for a broader exploration of how careful eating can lead to better health and longevity.
The New Glutton or Epicure
"The New Glutton or Epicure" by Horace Fletcher is a nutritional guide written in the early 20th century. This work aims to promote dietary economy through detailed recommendations on how to properly chew and savor food to enhance digestion and overall health. The author emphasizes that understanding and observing one's natural appetites can lead to a more fulfilling and healthy life. At the start of the book, the author reflects on the progress made since the original publication of his ideas and acknowledges the contributions of various experts and practitioners who have supported his dietary philosophy. Fletcher introduces his principle of "Thorough Buccal Digestion," which insists on the importance of masticating food well enough to ensure it is appropriately prepared for digestion. He discusses the physiological implications of this approach, including its reported benefits in reducing food intake while increasing satisfaction and health benefits, thus laying the groundwork for the more detailed arguments and endorsements that follow throughout the text.
Happiness as Found in Forethought Minus Fearthought
"Happiness as Found in Forethought Minus Fearthought" by Horace Fletcher is a philosophical treatise written in the late 19th century. The work explores the concepts of happiness, fear, and the importance of cultivating a positive mindset through the elimination of negative thoughts. Fletcher argues that understanding and improving one's mental habits can lead to true happiness, which he describes as a result of conscious usefulness and personal growth. The opening of the text introduces the central idea that everyone desires to be happy, and highlights the pervasive nature of fear in human experience. Fletcher shares personal anecdotes, emphasizing that happiness can be achieved through changing one’s mindset and behaviors. He discusses the duality of forethought (positive thinking) and fearthought (negative thinking), asserting that the latter can detract from growth and well-being. As he sets the stage for presenting methods to enhance happiness and eliminate fear, he draws upon historical and personal experiences to illustrate how individuals can cultivate a more harmonious and fulfilled life.
Menticulture; or, the A-B-C of True Living
"Menticulture; or, the A-B-C of True Living" by Horace Fletcher is a self-help and philosophical guide written in the late 19th century. This book centers around mental well-being and personal growth, advocating for the elimination of negative emotions such as anger and worry to achieve a more fulfilling life. The author draws on historical and philosophical teachings to expound on his ideas, seeking to cultivate a mindset conducive to happiness and personal development. In "Menticulture," Fletcher presents his theory of personal betterment through the 'germ cure,' which posits that harmful emotions are mental parasites rooted in anger and worry, inhibiting growth in both mental and physical health. The book recounts Fletcher's personal experiences and observations, demonstrating how he transformed his life by consciously dispelling these negative emotions. He encourages readers to adopt an attitude of appreciation and gratitude, positing that true freedom and happiness can be achieved through the practice of mental discipline. By organizing communities around the principles of Emancipation, Fletcher envisions a collective shift towards a more harmonious society where individuals support each other in their mental and spiritual growth.
A.B.C. of Snap Shooting: Sporting, Exhibition, and Military
"A.B.C. of Snap Shooting: Sporting, Exhibition, and Military" by Horace Fletcher is a practical guide on the art of snap shooting, written in the late 19th century. The book focuses on teaching readers how to quickly and effectively shoot using a rifle, emphasizing economy and skill development in various shooting scenarios. Written during the period when marksmanship was an essential skill for both sport and military purposes, it provides insights into effective shooting techniques and safety practices. The content of the book is structured around the principles of snap shooting, explaining the necessary techniques such as loading, aiming, and firing in a single, swift motion. Fletcher outlines the importance of using a .22 caliber rifle for practice, as well as providing detailed instructions on the types of shots one can take, including cross shots, drop shots, and trap shots. He emphasizes the practice routines involving tossing a bell-ball as a target, which reinforces the skills of timing and accuracy. Additionally, the book outlines rules for practice and competitions, making it a comprehensive resource for both aspiring shooters and those looking to refine their existing skills.
That Last Waif; or, Social Quarantine
"That Last Waif; or, Social Quarantine" by Horace Fletcher is a social reform treatise written in the early 20th century. The work advocates for improved care and protection for neglected children, arguing that society must enact a "social quarantine" to shield these vulnerable individuals from harmful environments and influences. The author highlights the tragic fate of a young, neglected child he encounters, illustrating the pressing need for systemic change in how society treats its least fortunate members. At the start of the book, the narrative unfolds in the context of heightened patriotism during the Spanish-American War, juxtaposing the fervor for distant humanitarian efforts with the dire conditions faced by the neglected children in urban America. Fletcher shares a poignant encounter with a young boy, a "waif," who pleads for mercy from a policeman, revealing the harsh realities of life on the streets. This incident serves as a catalyst for Fletcher’s call to action, highlighting both the societal neglect faced by children and the potential for a comprehensive reform system that could redeem them and shape them into good citizens. Through his observations and arguments, Fletcher critiques the current societal norms and suggests that a collective, organized effort could address the root causes of neglect and crime, rather than merely treating their symptoms.