AMA: A post on how I write a book about collapse on Substack

Oct 29, 2024

Listeners dive into the host's writing process for a serialized book on societal collapse, exploring the creative journey shaped by audience feedback. The emotional weight of reflecting on collapse sparks discussions about personal accountability and societal responsibility. Insights reveal how embracing mortality can ease anxiety and foster deeper connections. The host invites participation for future interactive sessions while reflecting on the unique calm found in confronting fears, encouraging a community dialogue on these pressing themes.

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Episode notes

Intro

00:00 • 2min

Exploring the Creative Process Behind a Serialized Book on Collapse

02:09 • 4min

The Emotional Journey of Writing About Societal Collapse

06:26 • 15min

Embracing Death as a Source of Calm Amid Anxiety

21:53 • 5min

Confronting Mortality as a Path to Overcoming Anxiety

26:30 • 4min

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas

A Savage Journey to the Heart of the American Dream

Hunter S. Thompson

Published in 1971, 'Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas' is a novel written by Hunter S. Thompson, presented as a blend of journalism and fiction. The story follows journalist Raoul Duke (Thompson's alter ego) and his attorney, Dr. Gonzo (based on Oscar Zeta Acosta), as they embark on a trip to Las Vegas to cover the Mint 400 motorcycle race. However, their assignment quickly devolves into a chaotic and surreal journey fueled by a variety of recreational drugs. The novel critiques American society, consumerism, and the failure of the 1960s counterculture, while also exploring the concept of the American Dream. The narrative is characterized by its blurred lines between reality and fiction, reflecting Thompson's signature Gonzo journalism style[1][2][5].

Essays

None

Michel de Montaigne

Montaigne's *Essays* are a seminal work that introduced the essay as a literary form. The book is a personal and introspective exploration of various subjects, including the human condition, skepticism, and the importance of concrete experience over abstract learning. Montaigne's skepticism is reflected in the title *Essais*, meaning 'Attempts' or 'Tests', indicating a project of trial and error and tentative exploration. The essays cover topics such as the education of children, the role of the body, illness, aging, and death. Montaigne's writing style is characterized by multiple digressions, anecdotes from ancient and contemporary sources, and quotations that reinforce his critical analysis of reality[2][5][4].

This One Wild and Precious Life

Sarah Wilson

In this book, Sarah Wilson embarks on a three-year soul's journey, hiking around the world to find a path through the complexities of climate change, the pandemic, racial inequalities, and our disconnection from what truly matters. Drawing on science, literature, philosophy, and the wisdom of leading experts, Wilson provides a blueprint for living a wilder, more connected life. She advocates for 'wild practices' such as embracing discomfort, breaking the cycle of mindless consumption, and reconnecting with nature and others. The book is a call to action, encouraging readers to step outside the zeitgeist and find a more joyful and sustainable existence.

A Tale of Two Cities

Julius Julius Seybt

Francisco Manuel GRANADO CASTRO

Marion Leighton

federico alonso

Aedi Abraham

maxi sanchez

jaime arbe

Fred BARNARD

Laura Santamaria

Juan Ramon Torregrosa

monica alonso

Charles Dickens

Alejo García Moreno

Miguel Muñoz

leonardo pablo federico sanchez alonso

J. J. Bernier

Salustiano Masó Simón

Victor G Ambrus

Jose perez

Hablot K. BROWNE

Published in 1859, 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens is a historical novel that contrasts the lives in London and Paris during the late 18th century. The story revolves around characters such as Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, and Lucie Manette, each dealing with love, sacrifice, and the profound societal changes brought about by the French Revolution. The novel critiques both the conditions leading up to the Revolution and the Revolution itself, highlighting themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the potential for positive change. Dickens's vivid portrayal of the social disparities and political unrest of the era, along with his iconic opening lines, 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,' make the novel a compelling exploration of human resilience and societal issues[3][4][5].

Ulysses

James Joyce

Ulysses is a groundbreaking and complex modernist novel that chronicles the experiences of three Dubliners over a single day. The novel is loosely based on Homer's epic poem 'The Odyssey', with Leopold Bloom paralleling Odysseus, Stephen Dedalus paralleling Telemachus, and Molly Bloom paralleling Penelope. It explores themes such as antisemitism, human sexuality, British rule in Ireland, Catholicism, and Irish nationalism. The novel is known for its innovative use of language and narrative techniques, including stream-of-consciousness and multiple literary styles. It captures the essence of early 20th-century Dublin, providing a detailed snapshot of the city's social, political, and cultural landscape[2][3][5].

War and Peace

Leo Tolstoy

Set during the Napoleonic Wars, 'War and Peace' follows the lives of several Russian aristocratic families, including the Bezukhovs, the Rostovs, and the Bolkonskys. The novel spans from 1805 to 1820 and is known for its realistic detail and psychological analysis. It explores the impact of Napoleon's invasion of Russia on the characters and society, delving into themes of love, family, war, and personal growth. The novel includes historical events such as the Battle of Austerlitz, the Treaties of Tilsit, and the French invasion of Russia, intertwining historical and fictional elements[3][4][5].