How to Flourish (with Daniel Coyle)

This book presents a comprehensive method for artists to recover their creativity from various blocks such as limiting beliefs, fear, self-sabotage, and other inhibiting forces. It is designed to help individuals discover and develop their artistic potential, whether as writers, painters, poets, or musicians. The book emphasizes the connection between creativity and spirituality, providing step-by-step exercises to nurture creative expression as a consistent part of daily life.

This book argues that the division of the brain into two hemispheres is essential to human existence, allowing for two incompatible versions of the world. The left hemisphere is detail-oriented, prefers mechanisms to living things, and is inclined to self-interest, while the right hemisphere has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity. McGilchrist takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from ancient to modern times. He argues that the increasing dominance of the left hemisphere in today’s world has potentially disastrous consequences.

In 'Quiet', Susan Cain presents a comprehensive argument that modern Western culture misunderstands and undervalues the traits and capabilities of introverted people. She charts the rise of the 'Extrovert Ideal' and explores how it permeates various aspects of society, including workplaces, schools, and social interactions. Cain draws on research from biology, psychology, neuroscience, and evolution to demonstrate that introversion is common, normal, and valuable. The book offers advice for introverts on functioning in an extrovert-dominated culture and advocates for changes to support and recognize the contributions of introverts. It also distinguishes between introversion, shyness, and anti-social behavior, and highlights the unique strengths of introverts, such as deep thinking, persistence, and excellent negotiation skills.

Published in 1969, 'Portnoy's Complaint' is a novel by Philip Roth that follows Alex Portnoy, a 33-year-old Assistant Commissioner of Human Opportunity for the City of New York, as he recounts his life, including his childhood, family relationships, and sexual experiences, to his therapist Dr. Spielvogel. The book is known for its explicit and comedic depiction of sex, which caused controversy upon its release. It delves into themes of Jewish identity, the impact of family upbringing on personal neuroses, and the struggle between sexual desire and societal expectations. The novel is structured as a non-linear monologue, jumping between various memories and experiences that highlight Alex's conflicted feelings about his Jewish heritage and his sexual obsessions.