The Manual A Philosopher's Guide to Life

Will likely read and reread often.

Sam Torode interpretations/translations are real good, makes for an extremely easy read

We no less struggle to avoid distress and lead the good life today than we did in Ancient Greece—Epictetus’ practical advice is as relevant as ever. Torode’s clear, straightforward interpretation of Higginson’s turn of the century translation brings fresh air to Stoic philosophy’s core principles.

Really loved this. Will reread often. Select quotes: ‘If you try to avoid what you cannot control—sickness, poverty, death—you will inflict useless mental suffering upon yourself.’ ‘Do not wish that all things will go well with you, but that you will go well with all things.’ ‘When our neighbor’s boy breaks their window, we are likely to say, “Oh well, accidents happen.” But how would you react if your own window was broken? You ought to react in the same way you did when it was your neighbor’s property that was damaged.’ ‘As when walking, you keep an eye out for sharp stones and fallen branches in your path; so when thinking, watch for obstacles and errors in your line of thought.’

Like every other human being, I’m anxious about things – whether I’ll do my job properly, how will people articulate my writings, what others think of me, etc. To my amazement, while reading the book, these weary feelings were lifted. I know that I should focus on my work and don’t corrupt my mind with thoughts about things I have little control but I didn’t know how. The Manual by Epictetus showed me what will happen in the long-run if I continue to worry about stuff I can’t control and ways to overcome my inner tension. It’s not in a form of 1-2-3 step program, rather, it’s by giving you things to think about. After each chapter, I spend hours thinking about what was said. To some, Stoicism and the philosophy shared by the guild of ancient wisdom-tellers – people like Epictetus, Marcus Aurelius, Seneca – might sound cheesy and stupid. Yet, I think we’re fools if we don’t spend more time thinking about what these long-gone teachers wanted to say about the world we live in. I can’t recommend the book enough. There are a lot of translations of this ancient manuscript but most people recommend the one I read – by Sam Torode. My personal takeaway is this: Focus on what you can change and don’t let things that are outside of your capabilities consume your mind. Life is too short to waste it on insignificant things. There’s no way my summary can substitute the timeless knowledge of Epictetus. So, once again, grab the book and read it. Read more: https://durmonski.com/book-summaries/...

Short and straight to the point, and just packed with wisdom. Great introduction to one of the great Stoics. Written (or translated I guess) in clear modern language which makes it easy to understand. I will definitely revisit this little bundle of wisdom, and probably end up gifting it to friends.