"The happiness we receive from ourselves is greater than that which we obtain from our surroundings" -Clemens Alex. Strom. II., 21.

Schopenhauer is one of the few philosophers who can be generally understood without a commentary. Clear, vigorous, and drawn from life itself, his writing stands apart for its rare accessibility and sharp insight. In The Wisdom of Life, he explores the art of living well-what he calls eud monology-offering practical reflections on how to make life as bearable, even as happy, as possible.

Departing from his usual metaphysical stance, Schopenhauer speaks here as a worldly observer, aware of life's illusions but still concerned with the question of how best to live.

Although this volume can be read independently, it is drawn from Parerga and Paralipomena, a later work intended to complement The World as Will and Representation. Like a citadel with many gates, Schopenhauer's system allows entry from many points-and here, in vivid and worldly reflections, he reveals himself as a philosopher who has truly experienced life.