The World's Best Book Summaries
What are the primary mythological archetypes? What do they have in common? What do they represent? The characters in our most primal myths represent the three broadest elements of human existence—the known world, the unknown, and the process of discovery. Jordan Peterson explores these characters in his book Maps of Meaning. Keep reading for an introduction to these archetypes and how they each represent a different facet of the world.
How is writing for video different from other writing formats? Does grammar matter? How should you punctuate the text? In Everybody Writes, bestselling author, speaker, and digital marketer Ann Handley offers a comprehensive guide to writing everything you need to write in today’s business world. The book’s main focus is on writing for marketing purposes, and she discusses how to write for video. Continue reading to learn these practical tips that are useful regardless of the type of video you’re writing for.
How can you achieve peace of mind? Is it reasonable to have pride? What are some strategies for dealing with hardships in life? Stoicism teaches how to live a happy and fulfilling life through thoughtful, rational action. The key is accepting things as they are and doing the best you can with the life you’re given. The Discourses and Selected Writings of Epictetus is one of the most prominent collections of Stoic teachings. Continue reading for an overview.
What are creation myths? Is there any truth to them? How do they function in society and in the human psyche? Two general storylines crop up all over the world. One is the creation myth, which, according to Jordan Peterson, provides the underlying basis for society. In Maps of Meaning, he explains why creation stories pervade and persist. Continue reading to learn about creation myths and what they provide us.
What tone should you use in social media posts? Should you take a stand on social issues? In Everybody Writes, Ann Handley offers a comprehensive guide to improving your writing and reaching your audience. When it comes to writing for social media, she discusses how to keep your brand voice consistent while adapting your tone. Keep reading for Handley’s tips as well as some advice about commenting on social causes.
Do you stay calm when you face adversity? Can you see the bright side in difficult times? The Stoic philosophers taught that the human powers of reason and choice are of paramount importance. Epictetus discussed how to use those abilities to overcome hardships, explaining that challenges are opportunities for growth. Continue reading to learn how you can take advantage of tough situations.
What’s the best way to evoke emotions with your writing? How can you balance creativity with credibility when you write? Whether you’re emailing your colleagues at work, posting on social media, writing papers for school, or writing content for marketing, creativity matters. In Everybody Writes, Ann Handley discusses why it’s important and how to achieve it. Continue reading to learn about the importance of creative writing for all types of content.
What is the Hero archetype in mythology? What does it tell us about human behavior? Jordan Peterson contends that the human capacity for learning, discovery, and exploration is embodied as the mythical Son—the Hero of the story. Like all mythical archetypes, however, the Son has a dark side. Continue reading to learn about these two aspects of the Son in myth.
What novelist is also a philosopher? What’s the problem with most self-help books? Conner could tell you. Based in Colorado, he’s a content writer at Shortform. We interviewed him recently to learn a bit about his relationship with books.
Is there value in small talk? What’s the Stoic view of dignity? How should you spend most of your time? According to Epictetus, Stoicism is about living well through dignity and discipline. He offers four rules for living as a Stoic: speak less, maintain an air of seriousness, focus on developing your mind (while not neglecting your body), and start practicing Stoicism now. Continue reading to learn more about these four rules.