Hi Readers,
Welcome to Pranav Reads!
A few days ago I came across a reel on my Instagram feed where a bookstagrammer was mocking Mark Manson's bestseller ‘The Subtle Art of Not Giving a Fu*ck’. I didn’t pay much heed to it as it wasn’t the first time that I had come across people making their dislike for this book visible. I know friends and fellow readers who have labeled the book as boring, cliche, overrated, and even useless! But I come under the category of people who have liked it and derived some value from it.
Today’s newsletter isn’t about convincing you to read this book, rather it’s an attempt to make you understand why people have liked it and disliked it and whether this book will suit your reading preferences. I will try to keep this as short and crisp as possible.
Happy Reading :-)
Why do I like this book?
Raw Authenticity
Mark Manson is bluntly honest. His no-nonsense approach to self-improvement is refreshing in its raw authenticity. He doesn't sugarcoat reality or peddle false promises of everlasting bliss. Instead, he acknowledges life's inherent struggles and encourages readers to embrace the inevitable discomfort that comes with growth.
“The more something threatens your identity, the more you will avoid it.”
Counterintuitive Philosophy
Unlike conventional self-help books that advocate for relentless positivity and unwavering optimism, Manson's philosophy revolves around the concept of selective indifference. He argues that true happiness stems from prioritizing what truly matters and letting go of trivial concerns. By embracing discomfort and accepting the inevitability of pain, readers can cultivate resilience and lead more fulfilling lives.
Very stoic! Isn’t it?
“Who you are is defined by what you’re willing to struggle for.”
Practical Advice
"The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" is replete with practical advice grounded in psychological principles and personal anecdotes. Manson offers actionable strategies for identifying and challenging self-limiting beliefs, setting realistic goals, and cultivating healthier relationships. His insights apply to various aspects of life like career, relationships, and personal development.
“Because when we give too many fucks, when we choose to give a fuck about everything, then we feel as though we are perpetually entitled to feel comfortable and happy at all times, that’s when life fucks us.”
Humor and Wit
Manson's irreverent humor and witty writing style make the book an engaging and enjoyable read. He uses colorful language and humorous anecdotes to drive home his points, making complex concepts more accessible to readers of all backgrounds. By infusing the narrative with humor, Manson creates a relatable and down-to-earth tone that resonates with audiences worldwide.
“Romeo and Juliet is synonymous with “romance” in our culture today. It is seen as the love story in English-speaking culture, an emotional ideal to live up to. Yet when you really get down to what happens in the story, these kids are absolutely out of their fucking minds. And they just killed themselves to prove it!”
Empowering Mindset Shifts
At its core, "The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" challenges readers to rethink their approach to happiness and success. Manson encourages readers to redefine their values, embrace discomfort, and take ownership of their lives. By adopting a mindset focused on growth and self-awareness, readers can break free from societal expectations and pursue authentic fulfillment on their own terms.
The desire for more positive experience is itself a negative experience. And, paradoxically, the acceptance of one’s negative experience is itself a positive experience.
"The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck" stands out as a beacon of blunt honesty and practical wisdom.
Why you should not read this book?
Well, the answer to this is pretty simple. If you have read till here and still feel that the book has nothing much to offer you, don’t pick it.
If you are into reading fiction and despise self-help books, stay away from this one! Your cravings are for stories, mystery, romance, drama, and pretty much anything that would invoke a wide range of emotions and stimulate imagination. Self-help is not the genre for that. It would be like consuming desserts when your craving is for spices.
This book has no out-of-the-world wisdom or concepts. It’s pretty straightforward. It does not have the ether of positivity to comfort you that other books in the market have. Mark won’t tell you that you are part of a grand divine scheme of things and how can you manifest your way into this creation.
If you are uncomfortable with explicit language, I am pretty sure you already despise this book from its title! I would say just give zero fu*ks to this book!
That’s it for today, thanks for reading it till the end!
“People get addicted to feeling offended all the time because it gives them a high; being self-righteous and morally superior feels good.”
― Mark Manson, The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck