Alexis Zorba the Greek
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Zorba the Greek: The Lifestory of the Legendary Greek Alexis Zorba
"Zorba the Greek," written by Nikos Kazantzakis, is a story about a guy called Alexis Zorba, who happens to be Greek. He is an adventurer who lives for the moment and defies all human rules while making his own. Although he is an anarchist, he belongs to the school of individual anarchy, which is based on the assumption that each individual is responsible for self-development to contribute to social well-being. Because Zorba uses his head and evolves as a human being every now and then, it is possible to observe his development as an individual throughout various stories of his life. Everybody could learn a thing or two from Zorba....
I do not consider "Zorba the Greek" a fiction book; I consider it a self-help book that can encourage you to engage in self-development. But don't get me wrong - Zorba is not the source of all wisdom or the solution to all life's problems. I have read the book 3 times - for now - and I am still learning new things, observing situations from different angles, and paying attention to new details every time I read it. Learning from Zorba's principles, such as analyzing, questioning, experiencing, and celebrating existence, rather than his actions directly, is the proper way to engage in self-development after reading the book.
"Zorba the Greek" is the best book I have ever read, and I plan on reading it again several times. It is one of the best masterpieces the human mind has produced over the centuries.
"You have everything but one thing: madness. A man needs a little madness or else - he never dares cut the rope and be free."
"Zorba the Greek"
Nikos Kazantzakis (1883 - 1957)
How and Why to Read Zorba the Greek
Everyone is an individual being. Hopefully, reading "Zorba the Greek" will encourage people to create a solid background for their own personal improvement. You don't need to follow his behavior; just listen to his words. He chooses his words with utmost wisdom and with practical experience backing them, something many "gurus" are not able to do.
Zorba the Greek
Amazon Price: $4.94 (as of 05/27/2012)
This book is a must read for all people interested in self-development and central philosophical issues in life. This book holds more truths about life than most self-help books you will find on the market.
"Life is trouble," Zorba continued. "Death, no. To live-do you know what I mean? To undo your belt and look for trouble!"
"Zorba the Greek"
Nikos Kazantzakis (1883 - 1957)
Example of Observing "Zorba the Greek" from Different Perspectives
"What is your favorite dish, grandad?"
"All of them, my son. It's a great sin to say this is good and that is bad."
"Why? Can't we make a choice?"
"No, of course we can't."
"Why not?"
"Because there are people who are hungry." I was silent, ashamed. My heart had never been able to reach that height of nobility and compassion.
"Zorba the Greek"
Nikos Kazantzakis (1883 - 1957)
I must say, I have considered some statements in the book egoistic and limited. I have considered not having likes and dislikes as a characteristic of those who are not in control of their lives. But I was wrong. He who has no likes and dislikes is obviously in more control of his/her life then I am.
I was reminded of the Hsin Hsin Ming by this quote:
"The Great Way is not difficult,
for those who have no preferences.
Let go of longing and aversion,
and it reveals itself.
Make the smallest distinction, however,
and you are as far from it as heaven is from earth.
If you want to realize the truth,
then hold no opinions for or against anything.
(...)
Peaceful and troubled derive from thinking;
Enlightenment has no likes or dislikes.
All dualities come from
ignorant inference."
To have no preferences, means to control everything in your life. When you do not discriminating between likes and dislikes you are giving yourself the ability to control both sides.
This is why I love this book. I still find new meanings in the same old text.
Zorba the Buddha
Osho and Gurdjieff are probably the two masters from the newer age who have respected and utilized both physical and spiritual aspects of life at the same time. If you are interested in effective self-development, learning something from their legacies will improve your progress.
Your thoughts on this book
Did Zorba's comment on how humans never break their strings from society affect you in any way? Do you respect his individuality? Or do you just think he's a rascal that ought to be ignored? Please, share your comments.
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Caroline
Apr 6, 2011 @ 2:25 am | delete
- I just realized that Zorba the Greek is one of my favorite books! I just can't get enough of it! There is so much to talk and learn from Zorba! I recommend this book to everyone... some may think is boring, but that's maybe because they don't understand it! :P
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EuroSquid
Feb 8, 2011 @ 7:12 am | delete
- I never read the book. But I saw the movie with Anthony Quinn. I am not sure that i would want to be like the movie Zorba...he seemed too irresponsible for me.
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avelimir
Feb 8, 2011 @ 7:17 am | delete
- That's why I said the book is better. He is showing a bit more responsibility, and I have not heard many wise things in the movie either... A lot is left out in the movie, so I have not included it in this lens.
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by avelimir
I heard about Zorba the Greek from Osho. I saw the book one day at the bookstore and decided to buy it. Normally, I would have passed this opportunity... more »
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