Subject
Essays Books
Best books
Ralph Waldo Emerson
Essays by Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Essays" by Ralph Waldo Emerson is a collection of philosophical reflections and lectures written in the mid-19th century. The essays explore profound themes such as individualism, self-reliance, and the relationship between humanity and nature. Emerson's work is foundational to American transcendentalism and invites readers to consider the interconnectedness of life, thought, and the natural world. The opening of this collection provides substantial background on Emerson's life and influences, illustrating his growth from a reserved schoolboy to a prominent philosopher and public speaker. It outlines his educational journey, his brief tenure in the ministry, and his shift toward authorship and lectures after expressing ideas that challenged conventional religious thought. The narrative emphasizes Emerson's belief in the "American Scholar," a figure representing intellectual independence, responsible engagement with social issues, and a harmonious connection with nature, setting the stage for the significant philosophical themes found throughout the essays.
Jane Austen
Love and Freindship [sic]
"Love and Freindship" [sic] by Jane Austen is a juvenile story written in 1790. Composed when Austen was just fourteen years old, this epistolary tale brilliantly parodies the romantic novels of sensibility popular in her era. Through letters from the heroine Laura, Austen lampoons the absurd conventions of sentimental fiction—fainting spells, wild coincidences, and exaggerated emotions. The story follows Laura's whirlwind marriage, unlikely family reunions, and dramatic misfortunes, showcasing the sharp wit that would define Austen's later masterpieces.
Friedrich Wilhelm Nietzsche
The Case of Wagner, Nietzsche Contra Wagner, and Selected Aphorisms.
"The Case of Wagner, Nietzsche Contra Wagner, and Selected Aphorisms" by Friedrich Nietzsche is a collection published in 1888. This provocative work marks Nietzsche's dramatic break with composer Richard Wagner, critiquing his music and political entanglements. Nietzsche presents Wagner as a symptom of Europe's broader affliction: nihilism. The philosopher showcases his music criticism while exploring art's relationship to humanity's future. This stands in sharp contrast to Nietzsche's earlier praise of Wagner, revealing an intellectual rupture that consumed his final creative years.
William James
The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy
"The Will to Believe, and Other Essays in Popular Philosophy" by William James is a collection of philosophical essays written in the late 19th century. The book advocates for the legitimacy of religious faith and explores themes of belief, empiricism, and the nature of knowledge. The essays aim to present philosophical concepts in an accessible manner, arguing that faith can have practical validity even when not backed by objective evidence. The opening of the collection sets the stage for James's exploration of belief with a discourse titled "The Will to Believe." He addresses the importance of personal faith, arguing that belief often arises from factors beyond sheer intellect and logical reasoning. He introduces the idea that choices regarding beliefs exist along a spectrum of options that can be categorized as living or dead, forced or avoidable, and momentous or trivial. James suggests that, particularly with religious beliefs, one's passions and desires may help shape decisions when rational evidence isn't available, presenting a compelling case for allowing faith to coexist with rational inquiry. He stresses that, rather than evading these essential choices, individuals must confront them to lead meaningful lives.
Eddie Cantor
Talkies
No description available.
Edmund Burke
Selections from the Speeches and Writings of Edmund Burke
"Selections from the Speeches and Writings of Edmund Burke" by Edmund Burke is a collection of notable writings and addresses from one of the most significant political thinkers of the 18th century. The works featured were compiled during the late 19th century, reflecting Burke's influential ideas on governance, society, and morality. The selection aims to illuminate Burke's views on democratic principles, the role of the aristocracy, the importance of oratory, and the moral foundation of governance. The opening of this collection provides an insightful introduction to Edmund Burke's life and legacy, highlighting his renowned status as an orator, statesman, and philosopher. It delves into key aspects of his character, including his strong beliefs on the importance of political morality and the relationship between government and the people. Notable themes discussed include the function of the House of Commons, the tensions in government influenced by public sentiment, and the implications of political inconsistencies. Ultimately, it sets the stage for readers to engage with Burke's profound reflections on pressing political and ethical issues of his time.
Lucius Annaeus Seneca
L. Annaeus Seneca on Benefits
"L. Annaeus Seneca on Benefits" by Lucius Annaeus Seneca is a philosophical treatise written between 56 and 62 AD. This Stoic work explores how gifts and favors bind human society together, examining the intricate ethics of giving, receiving, and expressing gratitude. Seneca addresses the Roman aristocracy, offering guidance on social exchange and reciprocity within their relationships. The work investigates what he considers a widespread problem: humanity's failure to properly give or acknowledge benefits, threatening the moral bonds that hold civilization together.
Henry David Thoreau
Walking
"Walking" by Henry David Thoreau is a lecture first delivered in 1851 and published as an essay in 1862. Born from over a decade of walking and journal-keeping, this work explores the relationship between wilderness and society through the author's personal observations of nature. Thoreau delivered this piece more than any of his other lectures, refining his thoughts on exploration, self-reflection, and the wild. Using allusion and an innovative writing style, he crafted a critique of contemporary society that continues to resonate with readers today.
Israel Zangwill
Without Prejudice
"Without Prejudice" by Israel Zangwill is a collection of essays written during the late 19th century. This work reflects the author’s views on various social, literary, and philosophical issues of his time, encapsulating a rich and whimsical examination of life and its complexities. Throughout these essays, Zangwill engages in discussions that critique societal norms, particularly focusing on gender roles, the arts, and the challenges of existence. The opening of "Without Prejudice" introduces a vivid and surreal vision experienced by the narrator, who finds himself surrounded by a vast assembly of women expressing their grievances and desires in a raucous uproar. This scene serves as a fantastical representation of societal expectations placed upon both genders. The narrator initially attempts to defend himself against their accusations, claiming his lack of power to address their demands. As the dialogue shifts from women to men, the narrator grapples with the burdens of responsibility and guilt pertaining to social injustices, leading to a deeper contemplation about humanity's shared struggles. This vivid introduction sets the tone for a series of critical reflections on modernity and the myriad issues that plague society, illustrating how Zangwill masterfully intertwines fantasy with pointed social commentary.
H. P. (Howard Phillips) Lovecraft
Writings in the United Amateur, 1915-1922
"Writings in the United Amateur, 1915-1922" by H. P. Lovecraft is a collection of essays and articles written during the early 20th century. This work captures the essence of amateur journalism as it thrived in America, showcasing Lovecraft's involvement with the United Amateur Press Association, where he not only contributed his own literary work but also engaged in critiquing the work of others. The collection highlights the communal and educational spirit of amateur journalism, offering insights into the practices and philosophies of this literary form. The opening portion provides a thorough introduction to the United Amateur Press Association, outlining its foundational goals and significant role in promoting literary expression among aspiring writers. It emphasizes the organization's commitment to education and the development of writing skills, serving as a training ground for many professional authors. Lovecraft discusses the importance of fostering a fraternal environment in which amateurs can share their works, receive constructive criticism, and learn from one another through an informal yet intellectually stimulating network. Through his reflections, readers gain an understanding of the unique character of the amateur journalism world during this time, which Lovecraft played an integral part in.
H. L. (Henry Louis) Mencken
Damn! A Book of Calumny
"Damn! A Book of Calumny" by H. L. Mencken is a collection of essays written in the early 20th century. This work explores various facets of society and culture, often with a critical, satirical lens on themes such as morality, humor, art, and the absurdities of human behavior. Mencken's distinctive voice and sharp wit are likely to engage readers interested in social commentary and literary criticism. The opening of the book introduces Mencken's provocative style, where he examines figures like George Washington and critiques contemporary societal norms. In particular, he portrays Washington not as a revered hero but as a flawed individual who would be vilified and misunderstood by modern standards. Mencken's arguments set the tone for the collection, showcasing his penchant for dissecting accepted beliefs and the hypocrisies within society, hinting at a broader analysis of human nature and civilization throughout the book.
Henry T. (Henry Theodore) Tuckerman
The Collector Essays on Books, Newspapers, Pictures, Inns, Authors, Doctors, Holidays, Actors, Preachers
"The Collector" by Henry T. Tuckerman is a collection of essays written in the mid-19th century. The work explores a variety of topics related to culture, society, and personal reflections on literature, art, and various social institutions. Tuckerman presents a thoughtful and often humorous examination of subjects ranging from authors and newspapers to inns and holidays. At the start of the collection, Tuckerman's introduction illustrates the historical significance of language and literature as tools for communication and reflection across boundaries. He then transitions into a vivid account of the changing landscape of inns in London, comparing the romanticized past with the more mundane present. Through engaging anecdotes, he discusses how these establishments once served as hubs of social interaction and artistic inspiration, illustrating their decline as modern travel evolved. The opening portion sets the tone for a reflective exploration of how society's customs have transformed over time, establishing a connection between history, literature, and personal experiences.
Recently surfaced classics