Literature & Writing¶
Analysis of the written word, guides to better writing, and deep dives into the mechanics of language.
How to Read Literature Like a Professor, by Thomas Foster (2025)¶
A fantastic analysis of literature that helps a reader go beneath the surface of a book. Covers symbolism, themes, and narrative structures.
The Mother Tongue: English and How It Got That Way, by Bill Bryson (2019)¶
A light look at the history and quirks of the English language.
Nabokov: The Mystery of Literary Structures, by Leona Toker (2020)¶
A detailed look at several of Nabokov's books. A fruitful area to get lost in.
On Writing Well, by William Zinsser (2020)¶
Liked for its clarity. The author practices what he preaches.
The Sounds of Poetry: A Brief Guide, by Robert Pinsky (2020)¶
An enjoyable introduction that sharpened my ear and helped me appreciate good poetry.
Eats, Shoots & Leaves, by Lynne Truss (2020)¶
How to Read a Book, by Mortimer J. Adler & Charles Van Doren (2020)¶
The Elements of Eloquence, by Mark Forsyth (2024)¶
A nice breakdown of several great pieces of literature by someone who loves the language.
The Odyssey of Homer, by Elizabeth Vandiver (2024)¶
Lots of rich context behind the language, culture, and structure of the Odyssey.
The Elements of Style, by William Strunk Jr. & E.B. White (2017)¶
Vigorous writing is concise. A sentence should contain no unnecessary words, a paragraph no unnecessary sentences. A precise, brimming guide to writing.
The Art of Reading, by The Great Courses (2021)¶
Audiobook that inspired me to tackle books I previously considered too hard.
The Letters of Vincent Van Gogh, by Vincent Van Gogh (2021)¶
A tragic look at Van Gogh’s suffering but passionate life. Helpful editor’s notes.
The Enchanter: An Adventure in the Land of Nabokov, by Lila Azam Zanganeh (2021)¶
An exquisite love letter to Nabokov’s works. Emulates his luminous, mad style very well.
The Battles of Tolkien, by David Day (2022)¶
A book to be held. With lovely illustrations and binding, it is a joy to read.
Supergods, by Grant Morrison (2022)¶
Grant Morrison looks at Super Heroes across the years, weaving in his own childhood and career. Recommended for comic lovers.
The Hero with a Thousand Faces, by Joseph Campbell (2021)¶
A beautiful synthesis of major world myths. Great for fans of TV Tropes.
How to View and Appreciate Great Movies, by Eric Williams (2024)¶
A look into different parts of the movie making process and what sets apart normal ones from the great ones.
Good Game, No Rematch, by Mike Drucker (2025)¶
A gamer's recollection of a lifetime playing games before moving on to the Comedy and TV industries.
The Chess Revolution, by Peter Doggers (2025)¶
A survey of chess from its earliest days to the AI stage and the current surge post-covid.