#2985

Mentioned in 9 episodes

The Moviegoer

Book • 1961

Walker Percy's "The Moviegoer" is a philosophical novel that explores themes of alienation, meaning, and the search for authenticity in modern society.

The story follows Binx Bolling, a young stockbroker in New Orleans, as he grapples with existential questions and the search for meaning in his life.

Percy's writing is characterized by its wit, intelligence, and insightful exploration of human nature.

The novel blends elements of Southern Gothic and existentialism, creating a unique and thought-provoking narrative.

It's a story about finding one's place in the world and the challenges of living a meaningful life.

Mentioned by

Steven Pressfield

Scott Yarbrough

Walter Isaacson

Wright Thompson

Mentioned in 9 episodes

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a favorite novelist who discusses the challenges of re-entry for creatives.

The Stoic Secrets to a Good Life (ft. Ryan Holiday)

Recommended by

Ryan Holiday

as one of the famous novels about New Orleans.

Your Worldview Is Only as Wide as Your Curiosity | Chet Garner

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a novel with Stoic themes, highlighting a passage about living by one's lights and fighting for goodness.

What Does Your Calendar Say? | 12 (Stoic) Secrets For Doing Your Best

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as one of his favorite novels.

It’s Really That Simple | Ask DS

Recommended by

Steven Pressfield

as a book that inspires writing.

Steven Pressfield | Writing Lessons from the Master

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a book to reread.

How To Get Out Of A Slump | The Long Way Around

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a favorite novelist whose work explores themes of meaning and despair.

Author Philipp Meyer on Channeling History, Philosophy and Failure into Art

Mentioned by

Scott Yarbrough

as a novel that wins the National Book Award in 1961 and addresses issues of faith and existentialism in a more realistic way.

Episode 33: Pulling Out the Mote in Flannery O'Connor's WISE BLOOD

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

and

Wright Thompson

as a favorite novelist, whose family is steeped in Stoic philosophy.

Wright Thompson on Untangling Myth from History in America

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a novel where the main character asks 'What do you love?', 'What do you live by?', and 'What do you think is the purpose of life?'

What Do You Live By?

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

in relation to his views on how art certifies a place and adds significance to it.

Susan Straight on the Power of Story

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

in the context of a publishing controversy and its unexpected success.

Just Shrug It Off

Mentioned by

Walter Isaacson

as a mentor and author of a book he recommends.

Walter Isaacson ON: The Importance of Living a Curiosity-Driven Life & How To Develop It

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as one of the greatest novels of all time, focusing on the search for meaning in a seemingly meaningless world.

ESPN's Wright Thompson On What Makes Us Great… And Human

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as one of his all-time favorite novels, recommended due to its exploration of Southern Stoicism.

John Barry on the Great Influenza and the Value of Truth

Mentioned by

Ryan Holiday

as a literary hero, referencing his book 'The Movie Goer'.

Dr. William Stixrud and Ned Johnson on Raising Self-Driven Children

The AI-powered Podcast Player

Save insights by tapping your headphones, chat with episodes, discover the best highlights - and more!

App store banner

Play store banner