Ludwig Wittgenstein's 'Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus' is one of the most important books of the twentieth century. It influenced philosophers and artists alike and continues to fascinate readers today. Alfred Nordmann's introduction considers both the philosophical and the literary aspects of the Tractatus and demonstrates how they are related. It also reveals how the work fits into Wittgenstein's philosophical development and the tradition of analytic philosophy, arguing strongly for the vigor and significance of that tradition.
I once tried the Tractatus, and I tried it again while reading this book. This very enjoyable introduction at least gave me some clue regarding the subject matter, the intent of the thing, etc. I mainly enjoyed the correlations to Kant, Hertz (yes, the physicist), and Lichtenberg. I had never heard of Lichtenberg before, and ended up buying "The Waste Books".