The Myth of Sisyphus

By: Albert Camus

Narrated by: Edoardo Ballerini

One of the most influential works of this century, The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays is a crucial exposition of existentialist thought. Influenced by works such as Don Juan and the novels of Kafka, these essays begin with a meditation on suicide; the question of living or not living in a universe devoid of order or meaning. 

With lyric eloquence, Albert Camus brilliantly posits a way out of despair, reaffirming the value of personal existence and the possibility of life lived with dignity and authenticity.

©1955 Alfred A. Knopf. Inc. (P)2019 Recorded Books

Talisman for diminishing suicide in our times

The Myth of Sisyphus, by Albert Camus, and narrated by Edoardo Ballerini. The essay(s) will provide insight into the meaningfulness of life. The essay(s) seek out and find the purpose for living even if you are a nihilist, an atheist, or a depressed bigot; and you believe the people you distaste are becoming ubiquitous, this read or listen will make you overcome that negativity.

Camus is not an easy read. First, because his vocabulary is advanced, and he will express himself in five-dollar words. There is nothing simple in his lexicon. Further, do not be surprised if you find dozens of sentences with three words you need to look up in the dictionary to recalculate the subtlety of its meaning. (You will find though his chosen words are precisely communicative.) Notwithstanding his diction, what he seeks to explain to the reader is not something that can be expressed in words: the world is strange and unfathomable yet there is something there to appreciate although what that is will never be known, so go at it with exuberance. Yes, I know that is not easy to grasp but neither is Camus. Hint – if you do take on the entertainment make sure you grasp what Camus means by the word absurd.

If you choose this intellectually gratifying challenge, be prepared for a reading that is only a little easier then Ulysses by James Joyce. Yet, it will get you to a better place in life; happier with what you have. It is the talisman for diminishing suicide in our times.

Camus’ Essays at his very Best

Most Wonderfully read of the best essays of Camus, who is known for his great novels, especially “The Stranger” that I highly recommend in the Audible selection. This collection of essays present his philosophy of the Absurd in Existentialism. Camus deeply believed that the Primary Philosophical Act of Life is the Ultimate Question of Suicide in the Shakespearean Realm of “To Be or not to Be” in his Hamlet Drama. Since we all choose Life, it is our moral obligation to seek Happiness, and no matter how difficult or Absurd Life seems at times, the Will and Hope to attain a Blissful moment of Happiness is worth it all as his enlightening “Myth of Sisyphus” exemplifies. All these essays have many Gems of Wisdom conveyed in them and Albert Camus is a marvelous writer. You will not be disappointed in this edifying listening experience. I plowed through these exceptional essays and reaped the harvest of the Quest we all should attend to in our Search for Our Creator. Gloria Deo In Excelsis, the Giver of our True Happiness here on His Earthly Paradise as the Hopefulness of what’s to Come. Heaven and Hell are not geographical locations but states of mind. Be Mindful as you Enjoy these essays! Peace. Shalom, Shalom. Watch The Chosen!

CAPTIVATING, ENTHRALLING, MASTERPIECE

I have read this book at least three times back to back! It is brilliantly authored and narrated. The author is brilliant in his description of the myth of Sisyphus. I like how he is deep and analytical of the abstract man! He looks at suicide in a way I had never looked at it! I love to drive and listen to him. He submerged my thoughts in a metaphysical world like no one else could! Most importantly, I am able to learn from him a writing style embellished with the fusion of simplicity, complexity and mystic vision.

Brilliant work, excellently narrated

I have been relistened to parts of this for the past month, and it has allowed me to better recognize how to live to the fullest. As Camus writes, "one does not become aware of the absurd without being tempted to write a manual of happiness." This is one such manual. I'm very thankful this is available as a very well narrated audiobook. If you have not read it, do so right away!

simply a must read

the narrator was perfect for the writer. the book gives true insight to life . although sometime overly flamblyant is it quit ornate. A true clasic and a must read .