The Hedonism Handbook: Mastering the Lost Arts of Leisure and Pleasure

by Michael Flocker

Book Overview

In the age of Oprah, Dr. Phil, and countless other self-help disciplinarians, indulging in any kind of pleasurable pastime is on the brink of extinction. But it's not too late to revive those lost pleasures that make life worth living. The Hedonism Handbook can help put the three-martini lunch, the baguette with real butter, the deep tan, the unfiltered cigarette, or the simple act of lying in a hammock under the stars back within our grasp. A tongue-in-cheek,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0306814145
• ISBN13: 9780306814143
• Release Date: October 2004
• Publisher: Da Capo Press
• Length: 208 Pages
• Weight: 0.49 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.8" x 6.9"

Customer Reviews

a cure against the rat race ??

In particular interesting book for people who work 60h+ per week and have no fun. Or people feeling in a mid life crysis. A gem of a book. Some highlights; o our obsession with dieting (enjoy food, dress well...feel well) o the mad race about being number one (yes, there are alternatives) o review on your deadbed (can be a wake up call for some) Well written and always with 'littel slap on the head' remarks like; if i want it it must be right or life is short, so i must dress well. I'm finishing now and enjoy with my partner some care-free time, wine, s... and a cigarette ;-)

One of the best books I've read

When I first got this book I had a minor interest in it, I thought it would just be an amusing read, but I loved it. I've always been ambitious and very goal-orientated but after reading this book I now have a different (better) perspective on things and it's helped me to relax. This book talks about how people like to achieve things just to boost their ego, even if it isn't what they'd really like to be spending their time doing. The title of the book sounds a little shallow and superficial but it's actually quite detailed about the points it makes - giving historical and modern day examples. Even if you don't agree with everything the author suggests (some things are not practical, but most are) it can still be an insightful and entertaining read.

EUREKA!

This book is exactly what I have been looking for! I am the type of person who puts a great deal of pressure on myself in all aspects of my life. This obviously results in a heightened level of stress, discomfort and overall disillusionment. This book will truly debunk those of us who find ourselves constantly rushing so that we may eventually "live the good life". Most of us do this, only to find that it is too late to enjoy it by the time we get there. This book will help you to realize that the good life must be led, in moderation, on a daily basis. There are plenty of lines in this book that will stun you, as you will realize that you've said that in your own mind, but never heard anyone else say it. The idea is not to be lazy or perverted (as the modern hedonist has come to be known), but to learn to let loose and enjoy your life. The author takes you through a history or hedonism, from the worlds' greatest and most reknown to the modern laws that attempt to trap the would-be hedonist into a life of self-deprivation and distress. Wonderful book. This is the best thing I've read in years!

Refreshing book, makes stop and think for a second

I grew up with the notion that hedonism is a bad character trait and has to be avoided at all cost (it even made me hesitate for a moment picking up the book from and checking it out), only to end up in the extreme workaholic, career-chasing crowd of today's America. I picked up the book because I felt something was wrong with the way I was living my life. And it was just the right book for that situation: it examines the silliness we all have put in our life, as well as the misguided puritan and martyrlike behaviors of the other extreme and advocates a way of healthy balance between focusing on what's important in your life, without going over the edge on either end of the spectrum. Well done!

But this book!

Every once and awhile a charming little book comes along that leaves you refreshed, and maybe a bit giddy. This is such a book, it is one of the best and least expensive vacations I have ever taken. At the end you want to take the author out for a great time just to say thanks. I owe him two because of his last book as well. Many of my friends will be getting copies this holiday season.