Im Zaubergarten der Gedanken. Einfälle. by Georg Christoph LichtenbergMy rating: 4 of 5 stars
What kind of book is this?
This is a theoretical expository work; more specifically, it is a collection of philosophical aphorisms.
Rational & Why I read this book
This book made my 2021 reading list rather coincidentally; it was mentioned as a reference in The Mature Mind. I read it partly because it was recommended by Overstreet, partly because I haven't read a good book by a German author in while, and partly because it seemed to be a short and worthwhile read.
The unity of the book — what is the book about as a whole?
There is no plot, no unity to be found in this book since it is merely a collection of ideas in the form of short paragraphs.
The book's structure
The aphorisms presented in the book are divided into 8 "chapters" (rookie translations are mine).
1. The enigma of reality
2. The individual and the collective
3. The beauty of nature's plan
4. The world of books and art
5. About faith and superstition
6. About the power of love
7. About life afterlife
8. Observations, conceptions, dreams
One particular lesson
I made 69 highlights some of which were (my own translation):
- "The most scholarly are not always the ones with the best ideas."
- "Nothing ages your mind more quickly than constantly thinking about growing older"
- "I forget most of what I've read, just like I forget most of what I've eaten. But I know this: both nonetheless make for my mind and body."
Judgement & Recommendations - Who should read this?
This is a short and worthwhile read (if you are German). It invites to ponder and think. It inspires you to keep your personal log of aphorisms. Overall, I appoint a 7 out of 10 (⭑⭑⭑⭑) on my personal rating scale.
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