Episode · How I Write · 2023-08-23
David Perell & The Cultural Tutor: books mentioned on How I Write (Aug 2023)
The Cultural Tutor: From McDonald's to Twitter Stardom | How I Write Podcast
The Cultural Tutor recommended The Consolation of Philosophy and A Treatise on Painting by Leonardo da Vinci and others, and discussed Atomic Habits by James Clear. David Perell discussed The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien.
Books mentioned, in the order they came up
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Atomic Habits
Atomic Habits by James Clear is a bestselling guide on habit formation that outlines how small daily actions and identity shifts can create lasting personal and professional change.
Discussed“if rather than reading Atomic Habits, you know, is the first one that comes to mind as one of these books which is like everywhere, you know, if rather than reading atomic habits, you go and read, I don't know, Botheus, the consolation of philosophy, just one example, um then your output is going to be different.”
Where to get it
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The Consolation of Philosophy
The Consolation of Philosophy by Boethius is a foundational medieval philosophical classic written as the Roman statesman awaited execution, addressing the nature of fortune, free will, and true happiness.
Recommended“if rather than reading Atomic Habits, you know, is the first one that comes to mind as one of these books which is like everywhere, you know, if rather than reading atomic habits, you go and read, I don't know, Botheus, the consolation of philosophy, just one example, um then your output is going to be different.”
Where to get it
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A Treatise on Painting
A Treatise on Painting by Leonardo da Vinci and John William Brown is a classic compilation of artistic insights, observations, and practical advice originally gathered from the legendary polymath's private notebooks and later published by his heirs.
Recommended“Well, in his private notebooks, he wrote a load of advice for young painters. And then his heir, Franchesca Meltzy, who collected Da Vinci's notes, takes it and publishes this scattered advice in a treaties called on painting. Wonderful. Everyone should read it.”
Where to get it
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The Lord of the Rings
The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R.
Discussed“And in the intro to arguably the best fantasy novel of the 20th century, Lord of the Rings, he thanks CS Lewis for giving him the encouragement to write that.”
Where to get it
Other mentions in this episode (1) — ad reads, self-promotion and passing references, never counted
“Oh, it's Charles Harold's pilgrimage. Uh, Aliceville. Thanks.”