#6745

Mentioned in 4 episodes

Levels of the Game

Book • 1969

Levels of the Game is a fascinating exploration of tennis as a sport and a metaphor for life.

The book delves into the lives and mindsets of two professional tennis players, Arthur Ashe and Clark Graebner, as they face off in a semifinal match at the 1968 US Open.

Through meticulous analysis and engaging storytelling, McPhee offers profound insights into the human condition and the psychological aspects of competitive sports.

Mentioned by

Mentioned in 4 episodes

Mentioned by

Cal Newport

as a brilliant example of using sophisticated structure to generate insight in nonfiction.

Ep. 250: In Defense of Thinking

Mentioned as a classic of tennis writing.

Talking ‘Changeover’ and the Alcaraz-Sinner Rivalry with Giri Nathan

Mentioned by

Jim Kwik

as a book he is currently reading for leisure.

My Morning Routine for a Limitless Day with Jim Kwik

Recommended by

Tim Wigmore

as a piece of sports writing.

Ep 422: The Past and Present of Cricket

Mentioned by

Noel Rubinton

as the subject of McPhee's book "Levels of the Game", showcasing McPhee's unique narrative structure.

Noel Rubinton, "Looking for a Story: A Complete Guide to the Writings of John McPhee" (Princeton UP, 2025)

Mentioned by

Ben Shapiro

while discussing a book he read over the weekend.

Ep. 822 - Double Standards Are The Only Standards

Recommended by

Tim Ferriss

for its elegant structure and exploration of a single tennis match.

#445: Janna Levin on Extra Dimensions, Time Travel, and How to Overcome Boots in the Face

Mentioned by

Noel Rubinton

as a dual biography of Arthur Ashe and Gravener Clark, told through a tennis match.

Noel Rubinton, "Looking for a Story: A Complete Guide to the Writings of John McPhee" (Princeton UP, 2025)

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