kjp

I’ve finally finished reading The Consolations Of Philosophy (by Alain de Botton). I’ve had it on loan for a while – a year or two (or more?) – and I’ll have the opportunity to return it this coming week (mums in town for a gig on Saturday). Well, I’ve read parts of it several times in the past – each time getting distracted and put it down.

Anyhow, it’s very easy to read, interesting look at six philosophers and six ideas: consolations for unpopularity, not having enough money, frustration, inadequacy, a broken heart and difficulties.

For me at the moment, I found the bits on Epicurus and what is needed for happiness (friends, freedom, thought, and basic necessities – shelter, food, water); along with difficulties / struggle / hurt is a perquisite for fulfilment. Aka: I shouldn’t stress about my housing (more on this later, tonight hopefully), and my lack of a partner.