Person
Every book Austin Kleon recommended on podcasts
Austin Kleon appears on shows like The Daily Stoic to discuss creativity, ambition, philosophy, and the habits of artists and writers. Throughout his conversation, Kleon analyzed and referenced several classic and educational texts. He explored the complex themes of Homer's epic poem The Odyssey, reinterpreting the protagonist's tragic flaws and unconventional heroism. Kleon also discussed C.S. Lewis’s autobiography Surprised by Joy, noting that he had listened to the work during his travels, and cited Neil Postman’s Teaching as a Subversive Activity when examining the true goals of modern education. Additionally, Kleon touched upon historical figures retreating to libraries to read and translate ancient Stoic philosophers like Socrates, reflecting the creative practice of finding solace in classical wisdom. Kleon's podcast discussions illustrate a deep appreciation for classical literature, memoirs, educational philosophy, and the enduring influence of ancient thinkers on modern creative life.
Books recommended by Austin Kleon
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Surprised by Joy
Discussed“so I was listening to CS Lewis's uh Surprise by Joy his like biography autobiography”
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Teaching As a Subversive Activity
Discussed“I mean in like I think it's Neil po Postman in like um teaching is a subversive activity uh a lot of people know his book uming ourselves yeah yeah um but teaching is a subversive activity starts out”
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The Night of the Were-Boy
The Night of the Were-Boy by Enid Richemont is a children's novel that explores imaginative themes through engaging storytelling.
Discussed“but that's what Mont was doing he he retires and he retreats to his Library cuz the world is [ __ ] insane and people are killing each other... he goes in he read he's reading the stoics he's reading Socrates reading and then he's translating it”
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The Odyssey of Homer
The Odyssey of Homer by Homer is an ancient epic poem recounting Odysseus's arduous journey home from the Trojan War and his encounters with various mythological trials.
Discussed“but not like the Odyssey is an exploration of a man's tragic flaws not a celebration of o like Odus is the bad guy in many ways you know what I mean”
Books Austin Kleon wrote
Appearances
| Episode | Podcast | Date | Books |
|---|---|---|---|
| ART, AMBITION, CREATIVITY: How To Steal Like An Artist's Austin Kleon | The Daily Stoic | 2025-03-04 | 4 |
Other mentions (2: passing, ad reads, own books)
“Well you talk about show your work It's not just like an artistic decision to do it”
“uming ourselves yeah”



