The Myth of Sisyphus

By: Albert Camus

Narrated by: Edoardo Ballerini

One of the most influential works of this century, The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays is a crucial exposition of existentialist thought. Influenced by works such as Don Juan and the novels of Kafka, these essays begin with a meditation on suicide; the question of living or not living in a universe devoid of order or meaning.

With lyric eloquence, Albert Camus brilliantly posits a way out of despair, reaffirming the value of personal existence and the possibility of life lived with dignity and authenticity.

©1955 Alfred A. Knopf. Inc. (P)2019 Recorded Books

Talisman for diminishing suicide in our times

The Myth of Sisyphus, by Albert Camus, and narrated by Edoardo Ballerini. The essay(s) will provide insight into the meaningfulness of life. The essay(s) seek out and find the purpose for living even if you are a nihilist, an atheist, or a depressed bigot; and you believe the people you distaste are becoming ubiquitous, this read or listen will make you overcome that negativity.

Camus is not an easy read. First, because his vocabulary is advanced, and he will express himself in five-dollar words. There is nothing simple in his lexicon. Further, do not be surprised if you find dozens of sentences with three words you need to look up in the dictionary to recalculate the subtlety of its meaning. (You will find though his chosen words are precisely communicative.) Notwithstanding his diction, what he seeks to explain to the reader is not something that can be expressed in words: the world is strange and unfathomable yet there is something there to appreciate although what that is will never be known, so go at it with exuberance. Yes, I know that is not easy to grasp but neither is Camus. Hint – if you do take on the entertainment make sure you grasp what Camus means by the word absurd.

If you choose this intellectually gratifying challenge, be prepared for a reading that is only a little easier then Ulysses by James Joyce. Yet, it will get you to a better place in life; happier with what you have. It is the talisman for diminishing suicide in our times.

CAPTIVATING, ENTHRALLING, MASTERPIECE

I have read this book at least three times back to back! It is brilliantly authored and narrated. The author is brilliant in his description of the myth of Sisyphus. I like how he is deep and analytical of the abstract man! He looks at suicide in a way I had never looked at it! I love to drive and listen to him. He submerged my thoughts in a metaphysical world like no one else could! Most importantly, I am able to learn from him a writing style embellished with the fusion of simplicity, complexity and mystic vision.

Camus’ Essays at his very Best

Most Wonderfully read of the best essays of Camus, who is known for his great novels, especially “The Stranger” that I highly recommend in the Audible selection. This collection of essays present his philosophy of the Absurd in Existentialism. Camus deeply believed that the Primary Philosophical Act of Life is the Ultimate Question of Suicide in the Shakespearean Realm of “To Be or not to Be” in his Hamlet Drama. Since we all choose Life, it is our moral obligation to seek Happiness, and no matter how difficult or Absurd Life seems at times, the Will and Hope to attain a Blissful moment of Happiness is worth it all as his enlightening “Myth of Sisyphus” exemplifies. All these essays have many Gems of Wisdom conveyed in them and Albert Camus is a marvelous writer. You will not be disappointed in this edifying listening experience. I plowed through these exceptional essays and reaped the harvest of the Quest we all should attend to in our Search for Our Creator. Gloria Deo In Excelsis, the Giver of our True Happiness here on His Earthly Paradise as the Hopefulness of what’s to Come. Heaven and Hell are not geographical locations but states of mind. Be Mindful as you Enjoy these essays! Peace. Shalom, Shalom. Watch The Chosen!

Beautiful Narrator

truthfully, I did not fully understand this book. Yet somehow, I know that within it's pages is something that has immense value and eternal beauty.
Top notch narrator. would recommend.

Truly smart and thoughtful

Lovely philosophical sentiments that draw on existential philosophy. His writing is truly art. Must listen

The philosophy and forced introspection

while this book is incredibly well written it is not very digestible for the average listener. It's flowery language and expansive vocabulary can often be confusing if you're not paying the upmost attention to the speaker. This is likely a much better listen/read if you own the physical copy and can follow along. Outside of that, it was insightful and opened up many avenues for new reads through it's frequent mention of the texts that informed and inspired the book.

It’s interesting but I don’t think I’m educated enough in philosophy to understand it fully

An enlightening take on a worthy absurd life

Edoardo Ballerini gave an excellent recitation of Albert Camus book. While I found Camus' arguments well stated and even compelling, he ends up covering the main arguments repeatedly which made the 2nd half of book somewhat tiring.

Conversational tone, lots of imagery.

It's a short listen. And like a lot of writers, Nietzche and after, Camus presents his philosophy in a conversational tone. His profession, the theater, provides a lot of imagery, but rarely.
Honestly, I think they set themselves up poorly, lofty a goal to explain suicide. Behind Schopenhauer 'architectural' tone is a lecture rather a conversation regarding this issue. Camus addresses the issue directly. Personally, rather inconclusive.
Together however... Schopenhauer might have hit the nail on head as to the 'essence of suicide' while Camus deals with its current iteration.

philosophy and essays

A bit of deep thought, over fluffed opinions by the writers but we'll worth the pondering and internal debate of our own opinions