Book · 2011 · Biography & Autobiography
Burning the Days
Recollection (Ambassador Book Awards)
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I loved Burning the Days, which I think was an incredible memoir.
Ryan Holiday · The Daily Stoic · Oct 2026 Listen at 26:56 Why people recommend it
Burning the Days by James Salter is an evocative memoir by the renowned novelist and aviator, detailing his early life, military service, and eventual transition into a literary career. The book has been championed by writer Ryan Holiday on multiple podcast platforms as a profound exploration of life, time, and ambition. Holiday expressed deep admiration for the memoir during an appearance on The Daily Stoic, praising it as an exceptionally powerful and beautifully crafted autobiographical work. He returned to the book during an interview on The Rich Roll Podcast, noting that the memorable phrase used in the memoir's title perfectly encapsulated his personal state of mind and sense of urgency during the global pandemic. Across these podcast appearances, Holiday utilized Salter's reflections to illuminate broader philosophical lessons regarding the intentional expenditure of human life and artistic dedication. These discussions positioned the memoir not merely as a personal historical account, but as a timeless meditation on how individuals choose to spend their fleeting years on earth.
Every mention
Ryan Holiday I loved Burning the Days, which I think was an incredible memoir. 2
“I loved Burning the Days, which I think was an incredible memoir.”
“Yeah, there's a James Salter novel in the title, it's like his memoir. I guess, is a memoir. But the title is "Burning the Days."”
