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Impressions and Comments   By: (1859-1939)

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Impressions and Comments by Havelock Ellis is a thought-provoking and introspective collection of essays that delve into various aspects of society, culture, and human psychology. In this book, Ellis presents a rich tapestry of ideas, inviting readers to explore unconventional perspectives and challenge societal norms.

One noteworthy aspect of Ellis' writing is his ability to seamlessly blend personal anecdotes with profound philosophical insights. The essays offer a glimpse into his own life experiences, allowing readers to reflect on how their own journeys intersect with the themes discussed. This introspective approach lends a unique authenticity to the book, creating an engaging reading experience.

The topics covered in Impressions and Comments are wide-ranging, spanning from art and literature to social issues like the suffragette movement and the sexual liberation of women. Ellis fearlessly tackles controversial subjects, drawing on his extensive knowledge of history, psychology, and sociology. Readers will appreciate his ability to present complex ideas in a concise and accessible manner, making the book suitable for both casual readers and those with a deeper interest in the subject matter.

Furthermore, the astute observations made throughout the essays demonstrate Ellis' keen ability to capture the nuances of human behavior. He explores the intricacies of love, sexuality, and the human psyche with a depth and sensitivity that is both enlightening and refreshing. Ellis' writing is both scholarly and deeply intellectual, yet never loses its accessibility or connection to real life.

However, there are moments in the book where Ellis's perspective may be seen as outdated or even problematic by modern standards. While this can be expected given the time period in which the essays were written, it is important for readers to approach these sections critically and acknowledge the context in which Ellis was writing.

In conclusion, Impressions and Comments is a masterful collection of essays that provides readers with a fascinating glimpse into the mind of Havelock Ellis. Through his unique blend of personal anecdotes, intellectual prowess, and thought-provoking insights, Ellis challenges readers to question societal norms and explore the intricate workings of the human psyche. Despite a few dated aspects, this book remains a captivating read that will stimulate the intellect and leave a lasting impression.

First Page:

IMPRESSIONS AND COMMENTS

BY

HAVELOCK ELLIS

PREFACE

For many years I have been accustomed to make notes on random leaves of the things in Life and Thought which have chanced to strike my attention. Such records of personal reaction to the outer and inner world have been helpful to my work, and so had their uses.

But as one grows older the possibilities of these uses become more limited. One realises in the Autumn that leaves no longer have a vital function to perform; there is no longer any need why they should cling to the tree. So let them be scattered to the winds!

It is inevitable that such Leaves cannot be judged in the same way as though they constituted a Book. They are much more like loose pages from a Journal. Thus they tend to be more personal, more idiosyncratic, than in a book it would be lawful for a writer to be. Often, also, they show blanks which the intelligence of the reader must fill in. At the best they merely present the aspect of the moment, the flash of a single facet of life, only to be held in the brain provided one also holds therein many other facets, for the fair presentation of the great crystal of life. So it comes about that much is here demanded of the Reader, so much that I feel it rather my duty to warn him away than to hold out any fallacious lures... Continue reading book >>




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