Stories of Thought and Meaning
Jonathan Livingston Seagull, written by Richard Bach, is a short allegorical novel that tells the story of a seagull who seeks more than mere survival—he longs for mastery of flight and self-discovery. Unlike the others in his flock, Jonathan pursues perfection through practice, transcendence, and teaching. The book expresses themes of individualism, spiritual growth, and liberation from fear in poetic simplicity.
The Alchemist, written by Paulo Coelho, is a philosophical and allegorical novel about a young shepherd named Santiago who embarks on a spiritual quest to find a hidden treasure near the Egyptian pyramids. Guided by recurring dreams and mysterious mentors, Santiago’s journey symbolizes the pursuit of one's “Personal Legend,” self-knowledge, and harmony with the Soul of the World. The book blends mysticism, motivation, and existential reflection in poetic simplicity
The Clown by Heinrich Böll, Nobel Prize-winning German author, is one of the most powerful novels of the 20th century. Written in 1963, it offers a critical reflection on postwar German society through the eyes of Hans Schnier, a professional clown facing emotional, financial, and ideological collapse. This article explores the novel’s central character, themes, narrative structure, and cultural impact.
The novel The Memoir of a Murderer (2013) by Kim Young-ha, a contemporary Korean writer, is a dark and captivating work in the psychological thriller genre. Beyond being a simple crime story, it is a profound exploration of identity, memory, and the nature of evil. Through a first-person narrative, the reader is drawn into the labyrinth of a serial killer’s mind as he struggles with Alzheimer’s disease.
The novel The Eaters (2009) by Jean Teulé is based on a horrifying real event in 19th-century France. With a bitter and darkly ironic tone, Teulé explores moral decay, class prejudice, and collective violence, showing how the collapse of social control can turn ordinary people into ruthless monsters.
The novel The Suicide Shop (2007) by Jean Teulé depicts a bizarre dystopia where depression and despair dominate society, and death becomes a thriving business. With biting dark humor, the book critiques modern society and shows how even a small spark of joy can dismantle the structures of hopelessness.
The novel The Wall (2019) by John Lanchester is a dystopian thriller that explores contemporary fears, climate crises, and border politics. With its cold and relentless atmosphere, the book serves as a metaphor for isolationism and the collapse of generational hope, quickly becoming a bestseller.
The novel Candide; or Optimism (1759) by Voltaire is one of the most influential works of the Enlightenment. With biting satire and irony, it challenges Leibniz’s philosophical optimism. Through Candide’s disastrous journey, Voltaire demonstrates that evil and suffering are inseparable parts of the world, and blind optimism is a dangerous folly.
