/lit/ - Literature

They say if you scratch a cynic you find a disappointed idealist.

I get this feeling that we live in a world clouded by egotism and apathy.

I'm certain you all share the thought.

I am interested in /lit/'s perception of how the world will unfold.

Please share.

Not sure which other to write in. (I know this is not very /lit/ related).

Please don't insult me for being an ignorant plebeian.


I don't read, though I've always had an interest in philosophy.

Is there an introductory outline for philosophical works?

I Google'd and all I can find is university and college courses, would this be an acceptable way to dive into the subjects?

Or is there some sort of guide that summarizes most philosophies? I don't want to begin reading pre-Socratic works, if my interest lies in, let's say, Confucianism (it doesn't, just an example).

Thanks, bros.

Quick question.

So, I was the kid in high school who didn't read. In fact, I would go to sparknotes and read summaries to score properly on tests and quizzes. I still find the act of reading to be vapid; I don't feel engaged, although, this is certainly an opinion. In fact, it is probably because I am ignorant in the ways of literature. I'm sure there are pieces of work that could captivate even the most uninterested and unimaginative person.

That being said, I've always been told I'm a good writer. I've always had trouble seeing this, I often thought that those were the comments everyone would receive about their work. Although, I did see talent in other aspects of my life.


>tl;dr

So to the question, how would one describe a great writer to a person that isn't able comprehend the difference between mediocrity and genius?

Thanks.

What do you guys think about the new age atheism movement and the respective authors?

Richard Dawkins, Christopher Hitchens, Sam Harris, etc.

I know they aren't "/lit/", just wondering if their books were worth a shot.