#existentialism

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#literature

The Discontents of Michel Houellebecq

Houellebecq critiques consumer culture, illustrating how supermarkets reflect existential dread and alienation in 21st-century life.

What If Every Day Were November 18?

Balle's novels redefine human existence through the exploration of time loops and existential reflections.

Everything is the worst in this 'Banal Nightmare'

Banal Nightmare explores the chaotic intertwining of humor and dissatisfaction in life, showcasing Moddie's struggle for self-identity in a darkly humorous lens.

Bestselling novelist Paul Auster, author of The New York Trilogy, dies at 77

Paul Auster, a best-selling author known for his exploration of existential questions and postmodern American literature, has passed away at the age of 77.

If Cats Disappeared from the World - Book Review

The novel explores the value of life and the choices we make when faced with mortality.

Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we die

Exploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.

The Discontents of Michel Houellebecq

Houellebecq critiques consumer culture, illustrating how supermarkets reflect existential dread and alienation in 21st-century life.

What If Every Day Were November 18?

Balle's novels redefine human existence through the exploration of time loops and existential reflections.

Everything is the worst in this 'Banal Nightmare'

Banal Nightmare explores the chaotic intertwining of humor and dissatisfaction in life, showcasing Moddie's struggle for self-identity in a darkly humorous lens.

Bestselling novelist Paul Auster, author of The New York Trilogy, dies at 77

Paul Auster, a best-selling author known for his exploration of existential questions and postmodern American literature, has passed away at the age of 77.

If Cats Disappeared from the World - Book Review

The novel explores the value of life and the choices we make when faced with mortality.

Morning and Evening by Jon Fosse review what happens when we die

Exploring death through literature reveals profound insights into the experiences of those who are dying, highlighting their emotional and existential struggles.
moreliterature

I am stuck in a box like Schrodinger's in Gaza

The writer reflects on the existential plight in Gaza, feeling trapped in a state between life and death due to ongoing violence and oppression.
#theater

Out to Sea and Back With Swept Away

‘Swept Away’ explores the tragic story of the Mignonette through poignant musical adaptations, reflecting on human resilience amidst existential horror.

A New Richard Foreman Play Puts a Twist on His Metaphysical Puzzles

Richard Foreman's new play marks his return after a decade, emphasizing the complexities of existence and perception.

Corrib Theatre Will Spend a Season Responding to "Waiting for Godot," but First Some Excellent Godot

Corrib Theatre's staging of Waiting for Godot captures existential themes and questions inherent in Beckett's work.

Waiting for Godot in Los Altos | Metro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading Weekly

The essence of human existence is explored through waiting and absurdity in "Waiting for Godot."

Out to Sea and Back With Swept Away

‘Swept Away’ explores the tragic story of the Mignonette through poignant musical adaptations, reflecting on human resilience amidst existential horror.

A New Richard Foreman Play Puts a Twist on His Metaphysical Puzzles

Richard Foreman's new play marks his return after a decade, emphasizing the complexities of existence and perception.

Corrib Theatre Will Spend a Season Responding to "Waiting for Godot," but First Some Excellent Godot

Corrib Theatre's staging of Waiting for Godot captures existential themes and questions inherent in Beckett's work.

Waiting for Godot in Los Altos | Metro Silicon Valley | Silicon Valley's Leading Weekly

The essence of human existence is explored through waiting and absurdity in "Waiting for Godot."
moretheater

The musical at the end of the world

The End uses the musical genre to explore themes of false hope and existential despair in a post-apocalyptic setting.
#personal-growth

I'm nearly 80 and there's a void in my life that hobbies can't fill

Existential boredom signifies a deeper crisis of meaning, not resolvable by mere distractions or hobbies.

Alex Edelman on HBO Special Just for Us,' Broadway, and What's Next

Alex Edelman's relentless curiosity drives him to explore diverse experiences, reflecting a profound interconnectedness with the world and a quest for existential fulfillment.

I'm nearly 80 and there's a void in my life that hobbies can't fill

Existential boredom signifies a deeper crisis of meaning, not resolvable by mere distractions or hobbies.

Alex Edelman on HBO Special Just for Us,' Broadway, and What's Next

Alex Edelman's relentless curiosity drives him to explore diverse experiences, reflecting a profound interconnectedness with the world and a quest for existential fulfillment.
morepersonal-growth
#fiction

Martyr!

Cyrus Shams grapples with deep grief and existential questions stemming from family loss while seeking connection and meaning in his life.

Rachel Kushner: "Gentleness Can Inspire Other People"

Rachel Kushner's novel "Creation Lake" explores existential themes through the lens of a clandestine spy infiltrating an eco-conscious commune in France.

'It's One of Those Infinite Time-Loop Situations You Might Have Heard About'

Balle's novel series explores existential themes through a time-loop narrative that challenges traditional genre conventions, asking profound questions about existence and choice.

Martyr!

Cyrus Shams grapples with deep grief and existential questions stemming from family loss while seeking connection and meaning in his life.

Rachel Kushner: "Gentleness Can Inspire Other People"

Rachel Kushner's novel "Creation Lake" explores existential themes through the lens of a clandestine spy infiltrating an eco-conscious commune in France.

'It's One of Those Infinite Time-Loop Situations You Might Have Heard About'

Balle's novel series explores existential themes through a time-loop narrative that challenges traditional genre conventions, asking profound questions about existence and choice.
morefiction

Facts vs. Feelings: Stars to ride, guys to stash, duds to fade in Week 15

Fantasy managers often struggle to balance emotional decisions with data-driven choices in fantasy football.

Pointless jobs: the unbearable ennui of office life in pictures

Tunbjork's photography underscores the existential ennui in modern corporate culture, marked by isolation and the prevalence of pointless jobs.
#philosophy

This AI sculpture in Miami Beach wants to have a deep conversation with you about faith

Lyra Drake's AI sculpture prompts discussions on faith and human connection in the context of a technological world.

Retirement isn't just a financial decision. It's a deeply existential issue

Retirement brings deeper issues of identity and meaning beyond financial considerations.

Epiphanies

The pursuit of deeper understanding often leads to existential realizations about truth and existence that challenge conventional perceptions.

APA Member Interview: Russ Shafer-Landau

Russ Shafer-Landau discusses his diverse early interests and how they shaped his philosophical journey and resilience in facing life's challenges.

APA Member Interview: Skye Cleary

Philosophy can reveal societal constructs of duty and highlight the importance of personal happiness over traditional expectations.

The Philosopher of Country Music

Kristofferson blended intimate storytelling with philosophical themes in his music, revolutionizing country with existential depth.

This AI sculpture in Miami Beach wants to have a deep conversation with you about faith

Lyra Drake's AI sculpture prompts discussions on faith and human connection in the context of a technological world.

Retirement isn't just a financial decision. It's a deeply existential issue

Retirement brings deeper issues of identity and meaning beyond financial considerations.

Epiphanies

The pursuit of deeper understanding often leads to existential realizations about truth and existence that challenge conventional perceptions.

APA Member Interview: Russ Shafer-Landau

Russ Shafer-Landau discusses his diverse early interests and how they shaped his philosophical journey and resilience in facing life's challenges.

APA Member Interview: Skye Cleary

Philosophy can reveal societal constructs of duty and highlight the importance of personal happiness over traditional expectations.

The Philosopher of Country Music

Kristofferson blended intimate storytelling with philosophical themes in his music, revolutionizing country with existential depth.
morephilosophy

Caspar David Friedrich: the racked Romantic painter who inspired Beckett and Bambi

Friedrich's 'Monk By the Sea' represents a turning point in Romantic art and explores themes of existentialism and abstraction.

I'm in my late 20s with over $5 million in the bank because of an inheritance - how should I managed such a large amount at my age?

Having wealth without purpose can lead to existential dissatisfaction.
A significant inheritance can create uncertainties about life direction and fulfillment.

Intense repartee: a collection of letters that the critic John Berger exchanged with his artist son

Manet's flower paintings symbolize life and death, creating a tension between beauty and mortality.
from www.theguardian.com
2 weeks ago

The best graphic novels of 2024

Isabel Greenberg's 'Young Hag' reimagines Arthurian legend with a feminist perspective, following a trainee witch on a magical quest.
#music

The Weeknd's Final Album? Everything We Know

The Weeknd's upcoming album is the last under his persona and will delve into existential themes.

'The End' Review: Tilda Swinton and Michael Shannon Sing for Their Lives in Joshua Oppenheimer's Post-Apocalyptic Musical

The End is a post-apocalyptic musical exploring themes of wealth, denial, and buried humanity in a family's underground existence after an unspecified catastrophe.

Cold Gawd: I'll Drown on This Earth

Cold Gawd's latest album reflects a deep desire for transformation, exploring emotions beyond typical shoegaze themes.

In the Time of Dying, Meet Me

The poem reflects on mortality, nature, and the desire for remembrance beyond death.

Grief is giving me this beautiful, deepening understanding': Phil Elverum on loss, new love and his landmarks of US indie

Phil Elverum's music evolved from personal introspection after loss to a broader examination of life and humanity with his latest album, Night Palace.

Why Bonnie Break Down New Album Wish on the Bone Track by Track

Why Bonnie's album 'Wish on the Bone' emphasizes hope and courage in the face of life's challenges.

The Weeknd's Final Album? Everything We Know

The Weeknd's upcoming album is the last under his persona and will delve into existential themes.

'The End' Review: Tilda Swinton and Michael Shannon Sing for Their Lives in Joshua Oppenheimer's Post-Apocalyptic Musical

The End is a post-apocalyptic musical exploring themes of wealth, denial, and buried humanity in a family's underground existence after an unspecified catastrophe.

Cold Gawd: I'll Drown on This Earth

Cold Gawd's latest album reflects a deep desire for transformation, exploring emotions beyond typical shoegaze themes.

In the Time of Dying, Meet Me

The poem reflects on mortality, nature, and the desire for remembrance beyond death.

Grief is giving me this beautiful, deepening understanding': Phil Elverum on loss, new love and his landmarks of US indie

Phil Elverum's music evolved from personal introspection after loss to a broader examination of life and humanity with his latest album, Night Palace.

Why Bonnie Break Down New Album Wish on the Bone Track by Track

Why Bonnie's album 'Wish on the Bone' emphasizes hope and courage in the face of life's challenges.
moremusic
#identity

Anne de Marcken presents It Lasts Forever and Then It's Over, in conversation with Hilary Leichter

Exploration of life after death
Unique and inventive storytelling

A Woman Wonders If She's Human in "I'm Not a Robot"

The film explores the complexities of identity and autonomy in a technologically advanced society.

Review: 'Interior Chinatown' is too weird and ambitious for its own good

The Netflix adaptation of 'Interior Chinatown' explores themes of identity and invisibility through a humorous yet existential narrative.

Review | 'A Different Man': Sebastian Stan stars in a black comedy with flair

The film "A Different Man" explores existential themes of identity, perception, and the consequences of changing oneself.

Where sights and sounds of modern poetry are - Harvard Gazette

The poem explores themes of time, identity, and existential indecision through vivid imagery and reflective questioning.

Anne de Marcken presents It Lasts Forever and Then It's Over, in conversation with Hilary Leichter

Exploration of life after death
Unique and inventive storytelling

A Woman Wonders If She's Human in "I'm Not a Robot"

The film explores the complexities of identity and autonomy in a technologically advanced society.

Review: 'Interior Chinatown' is too weird and ambitious for its own good

The Netflix adaptation of 'Interior Chinatown' explores themes of identity and invisibility through a humorous yet existential narrative.

Review | 'A Different Man': Sebastian Stan stars in a black comedy with flair

The film "A Different Man" explores existential themes of identity, perception, and the consequences of changing oneself.

Where sights and sounds of modern poetry are - Harvard Gazette

The poem explores themes of time, identity, and existential indecision through vivid imagery and reflective questioning.
moreidentity
#nature

"Everything Always"

Life's fleeting moments prompt reflection and a desire for change, embracing the present despite the past.

Failed Elegy

Many contemporary poems grapple with existential themes but often question their utility in effecting change.

Poem With the Last Line as the First

The author reflects on the tension between appreciation for life and overwhelming desire for solitude and escape.

"Everything Always"

Life's fleeting moments prompt reflection and a desire for change, embracing the present despite the past.

Failed Elegy

Many contemporary poems grapple with existential themes but often question their utility in effecting change.

Poem With the Last Line as the First

The author reflects on the tension between appreciation for life and overwhelming desire for solitude and escape.
morenature

The ending of 'Heretic' is intense - and ambiguous. The filmmakers break down the twist, that final shot, and Hugh Grant's Jar Jar Binks impression.

"Heretic" delves into psychological horror, focusing on deep existential questions about faith, existence, and the nature of belief.
The film prioritizes dialogue over action, distinguishing itself in the horror genre. A24's commitment to storytelling enables the film's deeper themes.
#art-exhibition

WARM WISHES, KIND REGARDS

Artists navigate complex themes like legacy and mortality through their work.

Bela Borsodi's 'Birth Life Death' invents new dynamics for inanimate objects

Birth Life Death photo series by Bela Borsodi at The Corner Gallery evokes existential reflection through inanimate objects.

Ur Kasin's All Is Blurred Captures Life's Beautiful Chaos in London Debut | stupidDOPE

Kasin's exhibition blends surrealism with everyday moments to explore self-discovery and existential themes through textured oil paintings.

WARM WISHES, KIND REGARDS

Artists navigate complex themes like legacy and mortality through their work.

Bela Borsodi's 'Birth Life Death' invents new dynamics for inanimate objects

Birth Life Death photo series by Bela Borsodi at The Corner Gallery evokes existential reflection through inanimate objects.

Ur Kasin's All Is Blurred Captures Life's Beautiful Chaos in London Debut | stupidDOPE

Kasin's exhibition blends surrealism with everyday moments to explore self-discovery and existential themes through textured oil paintings.
moreart-exhibition

I Love to Drive Fast, and I Cannot Stop

Reckless driving and an unhealthy diet can increase the risk of death, raising existential concerns about personal habits.
#art

Artist Spotlight: Andrew Tseng

Andrew Tseng combines absurd humor with grotesque, theatrical illustrations to explore themes of masculinity, human existence, and the strangeness of everyday life.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Ho Jae Kim's "Castaway" is Set in the Perfect Location

Ho Jae Kim's exhibition Castaway explores themes of existential transition and the artist's internal struggles through layered, introspective works.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Tony Toscani "From Safety To Where?" @ Stems Gallery, Paris

Tony Toscani's exhibition explores the theme of melancholia, reflecting the intricate bond between contemporary living and existential contemplation.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Elizabeth Glaessner: The In-Between

Glaessner's art explores the mutable nature of existence and the profound questions it produces, inviting viewers to engage with uncertainty.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Samual Weinberg "Lost Huron" @ Moosey Norwich

Weinberg's Lost Heron explores the quest for meaning through a whimsical character navigating loss and distraction.

Artist Spotlight: Andrew Tseng

Andrew Tseng combines absurd humor with grotesque, theatrical illustrations to explore themes of masculinity, human existence, and the strangeness of everyday life.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Ho Jae Kim's "Castaway" is Set in the Perfect Location

Ho Jae Kim's exhibition Castaway explores themes of existential transition and the artist's internal struggles through layered, introspective works.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Tony Toscani "From Safety To Where?" @ Stems Gallery, Paris

Tony Toscani's exhibition explores the theme of melancholia, reflecting the intricate bond between contemporary living and existential contemplation.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Elizabeth Glaessner: The In-Between

Glaessner's art explores the mutable nature of existence and the profound questions it produces, inviting viewers to engage with uncertainty.

Juxtapoz Magazine - Samual Weinberg "Lost Huron" @ Moosey Norwich

Weinberg's Lost Heron explores the quest for meaning through a whimsical character navigating loss and distraction.
moreart
#reality

How Spooked Should We Be by AI Ghost Stories?

The viral AI podcast illustrates profound existential dilemmas about identity and reality, prompting discussions on the implications of artificial intelligence.

Poem of the week: from At the Dimensional Border by Philip Fried

The poem explores the boundaries between dimensions, challenging perceptions of reality amidst the backdrop of infinite possibilities.

How Spooked Should We Be by AI Ghost Stories?

The viral AI podcast illustrates profound existential dilemmas about identity and reality, prompting discussions on the implications of artificial intelligence.

Poem of the week: from At the Dimensional Border by Philip Fried

The poem explores the boundaries between dimensions, challenging perceptions of reality amidst the backdrop of infinite possibilities.
morereality

A Family Reckons with a Father's Wish to Be Preserved Using Cryonics in "Eternal Father"

The article explores themes of cryonics, mortality, and the juxtaposition of life and death through personal reflection and family interactions.
#music-review

Foxing: Foxing

Foxing's album explores themes of existential dread and personal struggle, ultimately leading to little resolution.

2nd Grade: Scheduled Explosions

2nd Grade's 'Scheduled Explosions' juxtaposes playful melodies with themes of catastrophe and existential dread, creating a unique sonic experience.

Foxing: Foxing

Foxing's album explores themes of existential dread and personal struggle, ultimately leading to little resolution.

2nd Grade: Scheduled Explosions

2nd Grade's 'Scheduled Explosions' juxtaposes playful melodies with themes of catastrophe and existential dread, creating a unique sonic experience.
moremusic-review

Something in the Dark | Merve Emre

Djuna Barnes' work explores the interplay of love, death, and the grotesque joys of life amidst profound suffering.

Some people bring drive and passion to their careers, but I am more satisfied with conducting errands with aplomb | Joseph Earp

The pursuit of meaning can be found in everyday tasks rather than conventional career aspirations.

The Bard of Turkish Alienation

Oğuz Atay's writings express deep existential anguish, contrasting with his relatively content and modest life as a professor and writer.
#anxiety

A psychoanalyst in search of the logic of the absurd

Modern life is filled with absurdities that challenge our understanding and lead to anxiety, prompting a search for meaning.

Nietzsche on anxiety, courage and the 2024 Mets

The waiting and anxiety of a losing streak can prompt existential reflection among sports fans, questioning team identity and future prospects.

A psychoanalyst in search of the logic of the absurd

Modern life is filled with absurdities that challenge our understanding and lead to anxiety, prompting a search for meaning.

Nietzsche on anxiety, courage and the 2024 Mets

The waiting and anxiety of a losing streak can prompt existential reflection among sports fans, questioning team identity and future prospects.
moreanxiety

"Gloria Patri"

Finding solace and humility in the mundane aspects of life reflects a deeper spiritual journey.

Following Norway's National Painter Through a Landscape of Mountains and Fjords

Harald Sohlberg's profound connection to nature and existential themes distinguishes him as a Symbolist artist particularly revered in Norway, yet largely unknown internationally.
#science-fiction

The Invader, Self-Knowledge: Four Science Fiction Films that Intuit the Human Future. Part 1: Ex Machina and Arrival.

The four films explore humanity's fragile existence and the quest for connection in the face of potential extinction.

An Innovative New Time-Loop Movie Wastes Its Great Sci-Fi Premise

Zoya Lowe struggles with her impending death, using time travel pills to escape her mundane life and ultimately find hope for salvation.

The Invader, Self-Knowledge: Four Science Fiction Films that Intuit the Human Future. Part 1: Ex Machina and Arrival.

The four films explore humanity's fragile existence and the quest for connection in the face of potential extinction.

An Innovative New Time-Loop Movie Wastes Its Great Sci-Fi Premise

Zoya Lowe struggles with her impending death, using time travel pills to escape her mundane life and ultimately find hope for salvation.
morescience-fiction

Binoche forever! The eternal allure of Certified Copy

Certified Copy masterfully intertwines beauty and philosophical questions about art and reality, leaving viewers in a state of thoughtful wonder.

Introducing "Dear James," a New Advice Column

The article introduces a new advice column called 'Dear James,' aimed at addressing existential concerns and personal struggles that many people face.

Writing this book was like a drug high': Rachel Kushner on her Booker-listed novel

Rachel Kushner describes the writing of her novel 'Creation Lake' as the most exhilarating experience of her life, echoing themes of human history and existential urgency.

Only the River Flows, the Chilling Chinese Noir Sweeping TikTok

The film 'Only the River Flows' explores the existential dilemmas inherent in human nature through a crime investigation that reveals deeper societal issues.

You go to this L.A. play. When you get there, you find out you have 60 minutes to escape

Interactive theater redefined: 'Escape From Godot' transforms the audience into active participants, engaging with existential themes.

Review: Dylan songs take new shape in stark, brittle North Country'

Characters in Conor McPherson's plays grapple with haunting experiences, evoking a bleak yet beautiful world.

Fyodor Dostoyevsky's Formula for Happiness

Dostoyevsky found meaning in life despite inner struggles.

George MacKay Has a Thing for Playing Complex Characters

A romantic-science-fiction-horror film that intertwines different time periods and themes of existential foreboding and societal control through AI.

Why Jenny Slate sometimes feels like a 'terminal optimist'

Jenny Slate seeks the light in the dark, exploring big questions about life on NPR's Wild Card.

Author Franz Kafka's life was far from kafkaesque, biopic shows

Kafka was not just a victim of bureaucracy but a master of it, excelling at navigating complex systems from the inside.

Heidi Schwegler's 'Existential Action Thriller'

Schwegler's show 'Existential Action Thriller' explores existentialism through juxtapositions and hybrid objects, challenging viewers' interpretations and perceptions.

Perfect Days review Wim Wenders's zen Japanese drama is his best feature film in years

Hirayama leads a solitary life cleaning public toilets in Tokyo.
The film portrays a zen meditation on beauty, fulfillment, and simplicity through Hirayama's perspective.

The 37 Best Rock Albums of 2023

The best rock music of 2023 was cathartic and powerful.
ANOHNI's album 'My Back Was a Bridge for You to Cross' stands out for its existentialism and soulful grooves.
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