Not as stirring as my favorite translation (that'd be Hays' from 2002) but very clear, very accessible, and true to author's intent. The tone throughout is earnest and the writing is lean and compelling. Bookending the main text is an impassioned, reverent introduction and an illuminating glossary of terms to refine your understanding of key concepts throughout. The translators took great care to create a context for this version.

Purists take note: some sections have been omitted or excised where the translators were unable to clearly determine a fitting English translation, and they prized readability and cohesion of message over textual completion. But the most significant bits are retained and powerfully conveyed.

5 stars out of 5.

A fantastic, very portable edition of the essential thought of the great Stoic philosopher (and Roman emperor), Marcus Aurelius.

There are things that should be common sense to every human being. But not once do we lose the true perspective of our lives and values that should be cherished.

This often happens in the times of great stress (as it is popular to say these days).

In such moments it helps to remind oneself of these things and one could do that (in lack of no better way) by reading through this book.

(I highly recommend reading this book no matter what - I am sure reader will truly enjoy the experience)

Again, there is no great wisdom here - only notes from once most powerful man in Europe about everyday life. There are no talk-from-the-high-ground here. Everything is put in simple and understandable way - what we may call universal life truth(s) (again this is not do-it-yourself-in-x-minutes book so do not expect that this book will change your life altogether).

I mean can you give me better statement than: "Stop whatever you’re doing for a moment and ask yourself: Am I afraid of death because I won’t be able to do this anymore?"

Hits the mark and puts everything in perspective.

Highly recommended

Interesting. The original self-help book. Has some great quotes but also some tedious parts. Pretty amazing stuff that seems to embrace every religion. Reminded me a lot of Taoism. Wished my dad had given me this book to read instead of St Augustine and Merton.

I wish I knew about this guy earlier in life. He was a brilliant man, and the current world could learn a lot from him. This should be required reading for every human.