All Men are Ghosts

by L. P. (Lawrence Pearsall) Jacks

"All Men are Ghosts" by L. P. Jacks is a philosophical novel written in the early 20th century. The narrative delves into the nature of existence and consciousness through the discussions and reflections of its characters, particularly a figure named Panhandle, who presents intriguing theories about ghosts and the relationship between the living and the spirits. The book offers a thought-provoking exploration of these themes, even veering into the realm of metaphysics and the implications of perception. The opening of the novel introduces Panhandle's unique perspective on ghosts, suggesting that these spirits might perceive reality in fundamentally different ways than humans do. He argues that ghosts consider themselves more real than people do, as they inhabit a different realm of existence. Through a conversation with the narrator, Panhandle explores various philosophical ideas and illustrates a disdain for psychologists, claiming that their investigations are often trivial and deeply misunderstood by both ghosts and humans alike. Furthermore, Panhandle hints at a personal encounter with ghosts in his own home that promises to unravel more of his philosophical musings and experiences with the supernatural.