Dive into a transformative reading journey featuring Greek tragedies, comedies, and an exciting shift to philosophy in 2025. The host reflects on their ambitious reading goals, including tackling the works of Plato, while sharing plans for a new reading group focused on short classics. There's a personal touch as past experiences with the King James Bible are discussed, shedding light on its literary significance. Emphasizing the joy of classic literature, the speaker encourages a balanced approach, blending structured plans with spontaneity.
The host emphasizes the importance of a structured reading plan in enhancing the likelihood of engaging with impactful literary works.
He introduces 'The Short Great Books' reading group, fostering community engagement and a shared passion for significant literature among participants.
Deep dives
The Journey of Immortal Books
The host reflects on a 15-year reading journey that began with a desire to read more impactful books suggested by top performers. The project took shape in 2017, leading to the creation of a structured reading plan that initially focused on completing 52 books each year. Over the years, he discovered the concept of a literary canon and realized the significance of reading these foundational texts, thus shifting to the 'Immortal Books' project in 2023. The aim is to read essential works from various authors and cultures, arguing that making a defined plan enhances the likelihood of completing these influential texts.
Updates for the Upcoming Year
In the new year, the project underwent a renaming to 'Immortal Books' to better encapsulate the significance of these literary works. The reading structure now emphasizes reading in chronological order and focuses on 200 authors with the possibility of reading up to 500 individual works. Additionally, the host introduces a new reading group, 'The Short Great Books,' encouraging participants to read one short book each month, fostering community engagement and discussion. The group, hosted both online and in-person, aims to create an inclusive experience for all literature enthusiasts.
Structured Reading Plan and Future Goals
The reading year is organized like a university schedule, allowing for designated semesters and breaks. The host plans to read religious texts, Greek tragedies, and philosophical works, giving a structured approach to consuming a variety of significant literature. He emphasizes the joy found in engaging with classic literature, noting how these texts continue to resonate with contemporary issues and personal growth. The ambitious plan not only aims to cover Greek authors but also sets the stage for a gradual transition into Roman literature in the future.
READING YEAR THEME: GREEK TRAGEDIES, COMEDIES, HISTORY, AND PHILOSOPHY
2025 is the year I shift from the Greek playwrights into the philosophers. It’s year 3 of my 15-year Immortal Books reading project, where I read the greatest books ever written in chronological order.
In this episode, I share my plan for the year, give a brief history of this reading project, and highlight the books I’m most excited, scared, and curious about for 2025.
I mention a Short Great Books reading group I’m leading this year. I’d love for you to join. To do so, simply become a paid member here on Substack and you’ll have access to each monthly meeting. Learn more here or subscribe below.
This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.booksoftitans.com/subscribe
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