Customer Reviews

Towards Democracy

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This is quite possibly the most comprehensive book ever written on the human condition, be it the dawn of the 20th century (when the book was written) or the dawn of the 21st century.

This book sadly fell out of print a few years ago, and I am so happy that it is once again available and able to enlighten a whole new generation. Edward Carpenter was a turn-of-the-century poet and philosopher who collected his works into this magnificent volume. He writes about democracy, not in the political sense, but in the social sense. Writing on equality, love, hope and the need to express one's sense of joy in a world that holds so much, Carpenter opens the mind and heart to the true issues that are fundamental to all people.

Carpenter's poetry and prose are inspirational and true to everyone's life, regardless of class, color or creed. He truly celebrates life the way it should be celebrated. A glorious tour-de-force, Towards Democracy is a book I would recommend to anyone and everyone.

I was given this book in 1991 by a friend as a going away (to college) gift. I was going through many changes in my life, and facing massive depression because of them. He gave me the book after turning to a passage that directly related to my situation, and I have read it no less than five times cover-to-cover. I believe that fate sent him to that book, and in turn, brought it into my life.

Any time I feel down-trodden or unable to focus on what is really important in my life, I read a little. It never fails to help. I have shared this book with friends, and they all think it is one of the most brilliant and eloquent books they've read.

Don't get me wrong, this is not a book centered on religion, and many of the essays are descriptions of places Carpenter's seen. However, it is his unique vision of the world, his wonderful prose and immense respect of life that make this a book that belongs in every library.

There are certain people and particular pieces of literature that belong to the fabric of man's truest nature. This book, like "Leaves Of Grass" and "Walden" and Emerson's essays, belongs in that category. This is one of those books that are for those quiet moments when the inner space within needs nourishment. Carpenter is the type of man I long to talk to. He understands the fundamentals of the human experience. He is very different than W.W. yet very similar. W.W.'s poetry is more to my liking but Carpenter's temperament and perspective makes W.W. more poignant and relevant. Very powerful lives and natures entangled in the cosmic dance of life. They compliment one another. This is a book to be sipped and savoured in the quiet moments at either the beginning or end of one's day.