Good morning comrades, writing to you from my new studio. Finally, getting settled in after a busy few months of travel, and moving. Today’s newsletter will be brief, although important. I’m writing my first series of monthly book recommendations. Since I’m a man of Stoicism, we’ll start off with some of the reads I consider valuable to practicing, and learning how the Philosophy works.
Also, quick note. It’s nice to see that this is my 10th edition of this newsletter. Our list keeps growing, so thank you!
I will link to my favourite versions, and translations of each, if applicable:
"Meditations" by Marcus Aurelius - This is a collection of personal reflections and meditations by the Roman Emperor and Stoic philosopher Marcus Aurelius. It provides insights into Stoic philosophy, including its ideas about the nature of the universe, the role of the individual in the world, and the importance of accepting what we cannot change.
"Letters from a Stoic" by Seneca - A collection of letters written by the Roman philosopher Seneca to various friends and acquaintances. The letters offer practical advice on how to live a Stoic life and deal with the challenges of existence.
"The Discourses" by Epictetus - This book is a collection of lectures and discussions by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus. It covers a wide range of Stoic concepts and provides practical guidance on how to apply Stoic philosophy to daily life.
"Enchiridion" by Epictetus - An essential manual for living a Stoic life, offering simple practical guidance on how to cultivate Stoic virtues and deal with the challenges of existence.
"The Art of Living" by Sharon Lebell - This is a practical, modern alternative guide to Epictetus’ Handbook, offering witty advice on how to live a virtuous life and deal with the ups and downs of existence.
"A Guide to the Good Life: The Ancient Art of Stoic Joy" by William B. Irvine - This book offers a modern introduction to Stoicism, from a wise modern academic, and focuses on how its principles can be applied to modern life to achieve a sense of peace and happiness.
"The Stoic Life" by Tad Brennan - This book provides a comprehensive overview of Stoicism, including its history, central concepts, and practical applications.
"Stoicism: A Very Short Introduction" by Brad Inwood - This book offers a concise introduction to Stoicism, including its history, key concepts, and influence on later philosophers.
"The Inner Citadel: The Meditations of Marcus Aurelius" by Pierre Hadot - Offering a philosophical analysis of Marcus Aurelius's "Meditations", exploring its central themes and how they relate to Stoic philosophy as a whole.
"The Philosophy of Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy: Stoic Philosophy as Rational and Cognitive Psychotherapy" by Donald Robertson - This book explores the connections between Stoicism and behavioural therapy, offering practical guidance on how to apply Stoic principles to modern psychological practices.
All of these offer a range of perspectives on Stoicism and its philosophy, from historical and philosophical analyses to practical guides to living a Stoic life. Worth checking out if you have the time, and budget. I’ve used Amazon to link to these books. Other outlets are available, and possibly cheaper, or even free.
See you next week, all being well.
Quote for the weekend ahead
No thing great is created suddenly, any more than a bunch of grapes or a fig. If you tell me that you desire a fig, I answer you that there must be time. Let it first blossom, then bear fruit, then ripen.
— Epictetus, Discourses, Book I