The Art of Worldly Wisdom

Baroque philosopher, Balthasar Gracian’s ‘The Art of Worldly Wisdom’ consists of three hundred maxims spanning a wide range of topics relating to all aspects of life and human behavior. Gracian was a Spanish Jesuit Priest whose sermons and writings were disapproved of by his superiors.

"Think with the few and speak with the many," "Friends are a second existence," and "Be able to forget" are among this volume's 300 thought-provoking maxims on politics, professional life, and personal development. Published in 1637, it was an instant success throughout Europe. The Jesuit author's timeless advice, focusing on honesty and kindness, remains ever-popular. A perfect browsing book of mental and spiritual refreshment, it can be opened at random and appreciated either for a few moments or for an extended period.

Admired by Schopenhauer and Nietzsche for the depth and subtlety of his observations, Gracian’s collection of pithy insights deserves a place alongside similar classic manuals of self-improvement from antiquity like the Enchiridion of Epictetus and Seneca’s Letters.