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A review by jamscoopa
A Short History of Decay by E.M. Cioran
4.0
The short history of decay is the first Cioran I have read. Both during and now having finished I'm not quite sure what to think of it. The first half is dense and obtuse, often contradictory or almost nonsensical. The second half is much clearer and transparent, but lacks some of the beauty and acidity.
Overall the book is a celebration and commiseration of human existence. He understands it's arbitrary and purposeless nature, acknowledging we are strangely flawed primates, created through contingent chance alone, in large empty uncaring universe. Cioran is far more acerbic and brutal than Nietzsche, or other cynics, which I found oddly refreshing. Ultimate!y this book is a visceral and experiential read, which shakes you repeatedly, which I think was somewhat his point.
Overall the book is a celebration and commiseration of human existence. He understands it's arbitrary and purposeless nature, acknowledging we are strangely flawed primates, created through contingent chance alone, in large empty uncaring universe. Cioran is far more acerbic and brutal than Nietzsche, or other cynics, which I found oddly refreshing. Ultimate!y this book is a visceral and experiential read, which shakes you repeatedly, which I think was somewhat his point.