On the Shortness of Life

Ranked #6 in Stoicism, Ranked #14 in Antiquessee more rankings.

The Stoic writings of the philosopher Seneca offer powerful insights into the art of living, the importance of reason and morality, and continue to provide profound guidance to many through their eloquence, lucidity and timeless wisdom.

Throughout history, some books have changed the world. They have transformed the way we see ourselves—and each other. They have inspired debate, dissent, war and revolution. They have enlightened, outraged, provoked and comforted. They have enriched lives—and destroyed them.

Now, Penguin brings you the works of the great thinkers,...
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Reviews and Recommendations

We've comprehensively compiled reviews of On the Shortness of Life from the world's leading experts.

Ryan Holiday AuthorSeneca’s letters are the best place to start, but the essays in On the Shortness of Life are excellent as well. (Source)

Chip Conley Says something about the fact that it’s not so much the shortness of life, it’s how we waste it. (Source)

Maria Popova To remind ourselves of this profound failure, Maria, I, and at least six other guests in this book read and recommend On the Shortness of Life by Seneca. (Source)

Nick Janetakis I remember reading Seneca’s On the Shortness of Life which is filled with epic quotes and insights but one quote stuck with me, which is: “People are frugal in guarding their personal property; but as soon as it comes to squandering time they are most wasteful of the one thing in which it is right to be stingy.” This is so true. I’m generally pretty cheap when it comes to spending money but I’m also that guy who will spend 3 days planning out and building a custom desk instead of buying one. However, after reading that quote, it woke me up to the reality that I’m going to die eventually and... (Source)

Ola Olusoga Most philosophy books also fit my "favorite" bucket. One in particular that stands out for me is The Shortness of Life by Seneca. (Source)

John Craig This is the book that I recommend to everybody. It's everything you will need to make it in life & business. It is by far a complete business self-motivational book all-in-one. The best thing is that it’s 2,000-year of time-tested wisdom. (Source)


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