One of the bestselling authors of Plato and a Platypus travels to Greece with a suitcase full of philosophy books, seeking the best way to achieve a fulfilling old age
Daniel Klein journeys to the Greek island Hydra to discover the secrets of aging happily. Drawing on the lives of his Greek friends, as well as philosophers ranging from Epicurus to Sartre, Klein learns to appreciate old age as a distinct and extraordinarily valuable stage of life. He uncovers simple pleasures that are uniquely available late in life, as well as headier pleasures that only a mature mind can fully appreciate. A travel book, a witty and accessible meditation, and an optimistic guide to living well, Travels with Epicurus is a delightful jaunt to the Aegean and through the terrain of old age led by a droll philosopher. A perfect gift book for the holidays, this little treasure is sure to please longtime fans of Plato and a Platypus Walk into a Bar and garner new ones, young and old.
©2012 Daniel Klein (P)2012 Recorded Books
"Privileged white male musing about death"
It seemed more like a very brief memoir (or the beginning of one) of a privileged old man, and so was uninteresting to me. For instance, if the aging Greek men didn't have aging wives (who did everything to keep their aging male bodies well kept and alive), they wouldn't have been able to age so gracefully.
Women,except as adjuncts to men, were so obviously invisible, that I wasn't surprised at the absence of modern female philosophers. The author cherishes his philosophers as if they were sacred.
Although I learned very little, the book was useful in keeping me from getting too bored while doing yard work.
It was easy to listen to and I loved the glimpses of real life.
It just wasn't for me, although someone not familiar with philosophy based on ancient Greek philosophers might enjoy it.