Quick Take

The perfect pocketbook gift for the power-hungry - from 'the modern Machiavelli', Robert Greene, international bestselling sensation author of The 48 Laws of Power, Seduction and War. This concise version of the business classic Mastery provides a shortcut to Greene's powerful new tools for achieving greatness. Around the globe, people are facing the same problem - that we are born as individuals but are forced to conform to the rules of society if we want to succeed. To see our uniqueness expressed in our achievements, we must first learn the rules - and then change them completely.Charles Darwin began as an underachieving schoolboy, Leonardo da Vinci as an illegitimate outcast. The secret of their eventual greatness lies in a 'rigorous apprenticeship': they learnt to master the 'hidden codes' which determine ultimate success or failure. Then, they rewrote the rules as a reflection of their own individuality.Told through Robert Greene's signature blend of historical anecdote and psychological insight and drawing on interviews with world leaders, Concise Mastery builds on the strategies outlined in The 48 Laws of Power to provide a practical guide to greatness - and learn how to start living by your own rules.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: The Concise Mastery (The Robert Greene Collection Book 1)

Introduction

The Concise Mastery, written by Robert Greene, is a condensed version of the business classic Mastery. It provides a shortcut to Greene's powerful new tools for achieving greatness. In this book, Greene explores the concept of mastery, emphasizing the importance of hard work and individuality. Drawing on historical anecdotes and psychological insights, Greene offers practical guidance on how to start living by your own rules.

About Robert Greene

Robert Greene, the author of The Concise Mastery, is a best-selling author and public speaker. Born in Los Angeles, he attended UC Berkeley and the University of Wisconsin at Madison. With a background in classical studies, Greene has worked as an editor and writer for various magazines, including Esquire. He has lived in London, Paris, and Barcelona and speaks several languages. Greene's previous works, such as The 48 Laws of Power and The Art of Seduction, have garnered widespread acclaim and a loyal following.

Analysis of Views

Inspiring and Empowering: Readers find both the original Mastery and The Concise Mastery inspiring and empowering. They appreciate the idea that hard work matters more than anything else and that mastery is the ultimate goal.
Mentorship and Skill Practice: Many readers highlight the importance of mentorship and the value of practicing a skill. They find the book fascinating and consider it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to excel in their chosen field.
Universal Applicability: The book's broad applicability to various fields is praised by readers. They appreciate how the text covers a wide range of topics, making it relevant to a diverse audience.
Cryptic Nature: Some readers find the book cryptic at times, particularly when it comes to following the strategies presented. They suggest that scientific evidence or research could enhance the book's credibility.
Real-Life Examples: The inclusion of real-life anecdotes and stories from historical figures like Charles Darwin and Leonardo da Vinci is highly appreciated by readers. These stories serve as engaging introductions to each chapter and spark discussions on the topic.

Reasons for Recommendation

Comprehensive Guide: The Concise Mastery provides a comprehensive guide to achieving mastery in any field. Readers appreciate the clear structure and examples that help them understand the stages involved in mastery.
Relatability: Readers find the book relatable, as it offers practical advice on how to identify one's true calling and develop expertise in their chosen field. The examples provided make the concepts more tangible and applicable to real life.
Inspirational: The book inspires readers to strive for mastery, emphasizing the importance of hard work and individuality. It encourages them to break free from societal constraints and pursue their passions with dedication and perseverance.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Vagueness: Some readers find the book too vague or cryptic at times, which can make it challenging to follow the strategies presented. They suggest that providing more concrete examples or evidence would enhance the book's clarity.
Lack of Revolution: While some readers appreciate the compilation of psychological insights and stories from historical figures, others feel that the book does not offer anything revolutionary or groundbreaking. They feel that it merely compiles existing knowledge rather than presenting new ideas or perspectives.

Conclusion

The Concise Mastery by Robert Greene offers a concise yet comprehensive guide to achieving mastery in any field. With its focus on hard work, individuality, and mentorship, the book resonates with readers who seek inspiration and practical advice on personal growth and professional success. While some readers find it cryptic or lacking in revolutionary ideas, others appreciate its relatability and inspirational nature. Overall, The Concise Mastery is a valuable addition to Robert Greene's collection of books on power, seduction, and warfare, providing insights into the strategies and mindset required for greatness.