Quick Take

In Against Everything, Mark Greif makes us rethink the ordinary, taking our own lives seriously, exploring how we might live an honest life in these dishonest times. In a series of coruscating set pieces, Greif asks why we put ourselves through the pains of exercise, what shopping in organic supermarkets does for our sense of self-worth, what the political identity of the hipster might be, and what happens to us when we listen to too much Radiohead. From such counter-intuitive observations, Greif exposes the fundamental contradictions between our actions, desires and the excuses that we make to ourselves in hope of consolation. With the wit and seriousness of David Foster Wallace, Against Everything is the most thought-provoking study and essential guide to everyday life under 21st-century capitalism.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Against Everything: Essays

Introduction

"Against Everything: Essays" by Mark Greif offers a thought-provoking exploration of the ordinary aspects of life. In this collection, Greif challenges conventional wisdom and invites readers to reconsider their own lives. Through a series of essays, he delves into various topics such as exercise, music, reality TV, and the nature of police work. With his unique perspective and insightful observations, Greif sheds light on the contradictions between our actions, desires, and the excuses we make to ourselves.

About Mark Greif

Mark Greif is a highly acclaimed author and the founder of the journal <i>n+1</i>. He is an Associate Professor of Literary Studies at the New School in New York City. Greif has also written extensively on literature, philosophy, and culture. His previous work, "The Age of the Crisis of Man," received widespread acclaim, and his writing has been published in various prestigious publications.

Analysis of Views

Challenging Conventional Wisdom: Many readers appreciate Greif's ability to challenge conventional wisdom and offer fresh perspectives on everyday life. They find his essays insightful and thought-provoking, encouraging them to reconsider their own beliefs and values.
Insightful Observations: Greif's essays often feature insightful observations about contemporary culture. Readers appreciate his ability to identify and analyze trends, such as the rise of reality TV or the impact of social media on our lives. His observations provide a unique and often provocative perspective on these topics.
Philosophical Approach: Some readers appreciate Greif's philosophical approach to understanding the world around us. He delves into questions about the meaning of life, the role of art, and the importance of ethics in our daily lives. His essays offer a deeper exploration of these subjects and encourage readers to reflect on their own beliefs.
Thoreauvian Influence: Greif's essays often reference the works of Henry David Thoreau, particularly in relation to his ideas about living an authentic life and embracing simplicity. Readers who are familiar with Thoreau's writings find Greif's essays engaging and relevant to contemporary society.
Engaging Writing Style: Many readers praise Greif's writing style, describing it as engaging and accessible. He has a talent for making complex ideas accessible to a wide audience, making his essays enjoyable to read even for those who may not be familiar with the subject matter.

Reasons for Recommendation

Thought-Provoking Content: The essays in "Against Everything: Essays" offer a wealth of thought-provoking content that encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and beliefs. The book provides a unique perspective on contemporary culture and challenges readers to question their assumptions.
Insightful Observations: Greif's essays are filled with insightful observations about various aspects of modern life. From the rise of reality TV to the impact of social media on our mental health, he offers a fresh and often provocative perspective that challenges readers to see things from a different angle.
Philosophical Approach: For those interested in exploring deeper philosophical questions about life, love, and society, "Against Everything: Essays" offers a rich source of material. Greif's essays delve into topics such as the meaning of life, the role of art, and the importance of ethics, providing a thought-provoking exploration of these subjects.
Engaging Writing Style: Greif's writing style is engaging and accessible, making it easy for readers to follow his arguments and appreciate his insights. His ability to convey complex ideas in a clear and concise manner makes "Against Everything: Essays" a valuable addition to any reader's library.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Lack of Conclusion: Some readers feel that the essays in "Against Everything: Essays" lack a clear conclusion or overarching theme. They find it challenging to discern a cohesive message or purpose behind the collection, which can make it difficult to fully engage with the book.
Potential Bias: There are some readers who believe that Greif's essays reflect his own biases and personal opinions, rather than offering a more objective analysis of contemporary culture. They feel that his writing can be overly critical or dismissive of certain aspects of society, which can limit the book's appeal for those who disagree with his perspective.

Conclusion

"Against Everything: Essays" by Mark Greif is a thought-provoking exploration of contemporary culture that challenges readers to reconsider their own lives and beliefs. Through a series of essays that cover topics such as exercise, music, reality TV, and police work, Greif offers fresh perspectives on everyday life. His insightful observations and philosophical approach make this book an engaging read for those interested in exploring deeper questions about society and human existence. While some readers may find certain essays lacking in coherence or objectivity, overall "Against Everything: Essays" provides a stimulating and thought-provoking exploration of contemporary culture that encourages readers to think critically about their own lives and beliefs.