"These essays are a valuable criticism of life by a man who had a wide experience of life, a man of the world, who possessed an almost inspired faculty of observation. Schopenhauer, of all men, unmistakably observed life at first hand. There is no academic echo in his utterances; he is not one of a school; his voice has no formal intonation; it is deep, full-chested, and rings out its words with all the poignancy of individual emphasis, without bluster, but with unfailing conviction. He was for his time, and for his country, an adept at literary form; but he used it only as a means. "

One of nineteenth century's greatest philosophers, Arthur Schopenhauer made his mark by a fearless insistence on addressing realities rather than abstract ideas, an approach which invited as much heated criticism as it did respect. In The Wisdom of Life and Counsels and Maxims, Schopenhauer discusses a range of topics - among them, possessions, reputation, sexual passions and religion - and presents a stark analysis of the human condition before offering an equally bold solution to optimise happiness. His pragmatic approach is based on his concept of a force in nature he calls "will" which he sees as the fundamental reality of the world. This blind, irrational imperative continually struggles to realise itself and in so doing the organism evolves, producing - in the case of man - self-aware intelligence by which Will became conscious of itself. Unfortunately for human happiness, Will is forever manifesting as desires and its relentless drive more often than not brings pain. The only way for a wise man to achieve relief from such suffering, argues Schopenhauer, is for him to renounce the impulses of the Will and thereby control its negative influence over his wellbeing. These are two provocative works, made all the more readable by Schopenhauer's pungent wit and animated style. Aziloth Books' edition of The Wisdom of Life and Counsels and Maxims includes a lucid appraisal of Schopenhauer's philosophy by translator T. Bailey Saunders.

First published in 1851, "The Wisdom of Life and Counsels and Maxims" is a collection of essays by famed German philosopher Arthur Schopenhauer. He is perhaps best known for his 1818 work "The World as Will and Representation" and developed an enduring reputation for his philosophical pessimism, in contrast to the idealism of Immanuel Kant. Much of Schopenhauer's work is a reaction to post-Kant German romanticism. In "The Wisdom of Life and Counsels and Maxims", two of Schopenhauer's well-known essays are brought together and explore the thoughts behind his more realistic and pessimistic worldview. He rejects the usual goals in life of money, fame, pride, social position, and material and physical pleasures in favor of development of one's inner mind and a strong and healthy body. Schopenhauer was one of the first Western philosophers to embrace Eastern and Buddhist thought and his preference for a more meditative and ascetic life is evident in these essays. While Schopenhauer is well-known for his critical and pessimistic philosophy, his writing style is warm, entertaining, and charming, while at the same time being full of profound thought and substance. "The Wisdom of Life and Counsels and Maxims" remains an engaging and thoughtful discourse on life and happiness. This edition is printed on premium acid-free paper.