Why people recommend it
The Harder They Fall by Budd Schulberg is a hard-hitting novel about a boxing promoter and a press agent that exposes the gritty, corrupt underbelly of the sport. Ryan Holiday discussed Budd Schulberg's book on multiple episodes of The Daily Stoic. While talking with guest Kate Flannery, Holiday asked if she had read the novel, prompting a negative response before he proceeded to read a striking passage from it. Holiday highlighted how encountering a specific quote from Schulberg's work regarding dealing in filth profoundly altered the trajectory of his life and career choices. He used the novel to illustrate deeper truths about human complicity and systemic corruption. By weaving these thematic elements into his conversations, Holiday underscored the enduring literary and philosophical impact of Schulberg's writing, showing how historical fiction can still provide sharp insights into modern ethical dilemmas and personal accountability. The novel serves as a stark reminder of the compromises individuals make when entangled in corrupt systems, a sentiment that resonated deeply across the podcast discussions.
Who recommended it
- Ryan Holiday Discussed
Ryan Holiday — 3 mentions
“Bud Schulberg who wrote on the waterfront with this book called The Harder They Fall which is about a boxing promoter and a press agent.”
“Some people say, yeah, no, I agree. Have you read The Harder They Fall?”
“have you read The Harder They Fall no I haven't it's this novel by bud scherg”