Reviews

taking it in as a whole book at once is maybe not ideal, but I can see myself pulling this off the shelf and just flipping through it whenever I need to center myself or just calm down

btothhhhh's review against another edition

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5.0

One of the most timeless, unique, and impactful philosophical works human history can call its own. As a Roman Emperor, Aurelius penned these inner reflections (in Greek) as a personal guide rather than a formal treatise bound by logic, making the reading experience one of a kind: these thoughts must be considered not as a doctrine for the ideal life, but, as the title suggests, Aurelius’ entirely personal meditations.

Recognize what you can and cannot control. You determine your reaction to a crisis of any scale. Learn to move on, as the Whole intends you to do so. Master yourself. You will spend the most time with yourself, so nurture your soul with the freshest fruits.

Change: nothing inherently bad in the process, nothing inherently good in the result.

There is a river of creation, and time is a violent stream. As soon as one thing comes into sight, it is swept past and another is carried down: it too will be taken on its way.

When you speak in the senate or to any individual, be straightforward, not pedantic. Use language which rings true.

He who fears death fears either unconsciousness or another sort of consciousness. Now if you will no longer be conscious you will not be conscious either of anything bad. If you are to take on a different consciousness, you will be a different being and life will not cease.

So we must have a sense of urgency, not only for the ever close approach of death, but also because our comprehension of the world and our ability to pay proper attention will fade before we do.

michielvank's review against another edition

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4.0

Het self help book van de oudheid. Niet aan te raden als audiobook want dan mis je soms inhoud. Het leven is kort, geniet met mate en waardeer wat je hebt basically

laura_dorman's review against another edition

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4.0

Definitely not a book to read in one sitting, and of course a lot of the language is quite confusing - however the added footnotes in the edition that I read were really helpful in understanding some of the cultural references in the book.

I will definitely re-read this book and have collected quite a few highlights.

Very happy that this was recommended to me.

marinalikeaboatyard's review against another edition

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challenging funny hopeful informative inspiring mysterious reflective fast-paced

5.0

kid’s got some good ideas

pluir's review against another edition

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inspiring reflective medium-paced

5.0

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