What do you think?
Rate this book
The Less You Preach, the More You Learn: Aphorisms for Our Age
All of us need help and good advice on how to make our lives better. In the latest book by No.1 bestselling author Shashi Tharoor along with co-author Joseph Zacharias you will learn how to achieve success at work, dispel feelings of frustration and insecurity, make your relationship with friends and family better, overcome self -doubt and depression and much more.
The authors present their formula for success in the form of aphorisms – concise, wise and witty sayings full of deep wisdom and insights. These aphorisms will help people unlock their potential, find success in life, love and work, and live their lives to the fullest. The aphorism is one of the oldest forms of literary expressions and has been around for thousands of years. Wise and insightful, the aphorisms in The Less You Preach, the More You for Our Age will help you make your life better.
The authors present their formula for success in the form of aphorisms – concise, wise and witty sayings full of deep wisdom and insights. These aphorisms will help people unlock their potential, find success in life, love and work, and live their lives to the fullest. The aphorism is one of the oldest forms of literary expressions and has been around for thousands of years. Wise and insightful, the aphorisms in The Less You Preach, the More You for Our Age will help you make your life better.
- GenresNonfiction
161 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 5, 2023
63 people are currently reading
150 people want to read
About the author
Shashi Tharoor
73 books3,031 followersShashi Tharoor is a member of the Indian Parliament from the Thiruvananthapuram constituency in Kerala. He previously served as the United Nations Under-Secretary General for Communications and Public Information and as the Indian Minister of State for External Affairs.
He is also a prolific author, columnist, journalist and a human rights advocate.
He has served on the Board of Overseers of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He is also an adviser to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva and a Fellow of the New York Institute of the Humanities at New York University. He has also served as a trustee of the Aspen Institute, and the Advisory of the Indo-American Arts Council, the American India Foundation, the World Policy Journal, the Virtue Foundation and the human rights organization Breakthrough He is also a Patron of the Dubai Modern High School and the managing trustee of the Chandran Tharoor Foundation which he founded with his family and friends in the name of his late father, Chandran Tharoor.
Tharoor has written numerous books in English. Most of his literary creations are centred on Indian themes and they are markedly “Indo-nostalgic.” Perhaps his most famous work is The Great Indian Novel, published in 1989, in which he uses the narrative and theme of the famous Indian epic Mahabharata to weave a satirical story of Indian life in a non-linear mode with the characters drawn from the Indian Independence Movement. His novel Show Business (1992) was made into the film 'Bollywood'(1994). The late Ismail Merchant had announced his wish to make a film of Tharoor’s novel Riot shortly before Merchant’s death in 2005.
Tharoor has been a highly-regarded columnist in each of India's three best-known English-language newspapers, most recently for The Hindu newspaper (2001–2008) and in a weekly column, “Shashi on Sunday,” in the Times of India (January 2007 – December 2008). Following his resignation as Minister of State for External Affairs, he began a fortnightly column on foreign policy issues in the "Deccan Chronicle". Previously he was a columnist for the Gentleman magazine and the Indian Express newspaper, as well as a frequent contributor to Newsweek International and the International Herald Tribune. His Op-Eds and book reviews have appeared in the Washington Post, the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, amongst other papers.
Tharoor began writing at the age of 6 and his first published story appeared in the “Bharat Jyoti”, the Sunday edition of the "Free press Journal", in Mumbai at age 10. His World War II adventure novel Operation Bellows, inspired by the Biggles books, was serialized in the Junior Statesman starting a week before his 11th birthday. Each of his books has been a best-seller in India. The Great Indian Novel is currently in its 28th edition in India and his newest volume. The Elephant, the Tiger and the Cellphone has undergone seven hardback re-printings there.
Tharoor has lectured widely on India, and is often quoted for his observations, including, "India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.". He has also coined a memorable comparison of India's "thali" to the American "melting pot": "If America is a melting pot, then to me India is a thali--a selection of sumptuous dishes in different bowls. Each tastes different, and does not necessarily mix with the next, but they belong together on the same plate, and they complement each other in making the meal a satisfying repast."
He is also a prolific author, columnist, journalist and a human rights advocate.
He has served on the Board of Overseers of the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University. He is also an adviser to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Geneva and a Fellow of the New York Institute of the Humanities at New York University. He has also served as a trustee of the Aspen Institute, and the Advisory of the Indo-American Arts Council, the American India Foundation, the World Policy Journal, the Virtue Foundation and the human rights organization Breakthrough He is also a Patron of the Dubai Modern High School and the managing trustee of the Chandran Tharoor Foundation which he founded with his family and friends in the name of his late father, Chandran Tharoor.
Tharoor has written numerous books in English. Most of his literary creations are centred on Indian themes and they are markedly “Indo-nostalgic.” Perhaps his most famous work is The Great Indian Novel, published in 1989, in which he uses the narrative and theme of the famous Indian epic Mahabharata to weave a satirical story of Indian life in a non-linear mode with the characters drawn from the Indian Independence Movement. His novel Show Business (1992) was made into the film 'Bollywood'(1994). The late Ismail Merchant had announced his wish to make a film of Tharoor’s novel Riot shortly before Merchant’s death in 2005.
Tharoor has been a highly-regarded columnist in each of India's three best-known English-language newspapers, most recently for The Hindu newspaper (2001–2008) and in a weekly column, “Shashi on Sunday,” in the Times of India (January 2007 – December 2008). Following his resignation as Minister of State for External Affairs, he began a fortnightly column on foreign policy issues in the "Deccan Chronicle". Previously he was a columnist for the Gentleman magazine and the Indian Express newspaper, as well as a frequent contributor to Newsweek International and the International Herald Tribune. His Op-Eds and book reviews have appeared in the Washington Post, the New York Times and the Los Angeles Times, amongst other papers.
Tharoor began writing at the age of 6 and his first published story appeared in the “Bharat Jyoti”, the Sunday edition of the "Free press Journal", in Mumbai at age 10. His World War II adventure novel Operation Bellows, inspired by the Biggles books, was serialized in the Junior Statesman starting a week before his 11th birthday. Each of his books has been a best-seller in India. The Great Indian Novel is currently in its 28th edition in India and his newest volume. The Elephant, the Tiger and the Cellphone has undergone seven hardback re-printings there.
Tharoor has lectured widely on India, and is often quoted for his observations, including, "India is not, as people keep calling it, an underdeveloped country, but rather, in the context of its history and cultural heritage, a highly developed one in an advanced state of decay.". He has also coined a memorable comparison of India's "thali" to the American "melting pot": "If America is a melting pot, then to me India is a thali--a selection of sumptuous dishes in different bowls. Each tastes different, and does not necessarily mix with the next, but they belong together on the same plate, and they complement each other in making the meal a satisfying repast."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
September 26, 2023
"The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" is a book that talks about short and clever sayings called aphorisms. It has over 200 of these sayings about modern life. These sayings are smart, make you think, and are fun to read. The authors, Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias, got inspiration from famous thinkers like Seneca and Oscar Wilde. If you like aphorisms that make you think, this book is for you. It's a great read that shows how you can say a lot with just a few words.
October 7, 2023
I have always loved a good aphorism. Growing up, my grandfather always had one at the tip of his tongue and I would try to memorise each of them religiously. When I learnt that a book of aphorisms is being released by @alephbookco featuring some by Dr Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias, I knew I had to read it. Everything about this delightful little book is refreshing. Be it the witty statements or the clever illustrations by Priya Kurian to go with them, it is all neatly done.
Although Dr Tharoor chanced upon Joseph for a work meeting, it is their friendship that has evolved over the years. It’s no secret that Dr Tharoor is well known for his sharp wit but it is the combined aphorisms by the two men that makes this little book such a hit. I also loved the idea that these aphorisms are written so diversely be it about relationships, life, work life, society and god. It encapsulates human nature and offers a refreshing take on how we behave as a community.
This is a book that you can revisit time and again because the aphorisms never get old. Extra points for this gorgeous cover.
Although Dr Tharoor chanced upon Joseph for a work meeting, it is their friendship that has evolved over the years. It’s no secret that Dr Tharoor is well known for his sharp wit but it is the combined aphorisms by the two men that makes this little book such a hit. I also loved the idea that these aphorisms are written so diversely be it about relationships, life, work life, society and god. It encapsulates human nature and offers a refreshing take on how we behave as a community.
This is a book that you can revisit time and again because the aphorisms never get old. Extra points for this gorgeous cover.
October 6, 2023
The Less You Preach The More You Learn is such a beautiful book of over 200 Aphorisms by @shashitharoor and Joseph Zacharias published by @alephbookco
I love reading few pages from it everyday!
The Aphorism, an ancient literary form, has persisted for millennia. It encapsulates a fundamental truth, principle, or insightful nugget in a succinct, often witty manner. Renowned intellectuals and writers, such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Oscar Wilde, have masterfully crafted aphorisms. Within "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn," Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias craft over 200 aphorisms that touch upon various facets of contemporary life, offering wisdom, wit, and memorable insights that challenge, engage, and amuse.
Definitely check this book out!
I love reading few pages from it everyday!
The Aphorism, an ancient literary form, has persisted for millennia. It encapsulates a fundamental truth, principle, or insightful nugget in a succinct, often witty manner. Renowned intellectuals and writers, such as Friedrich Nietzsche and Oscar Wilde, have masterfully crafted aphorisms. Within "The Less You Preach, The More You Learn," Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias craft over 200 aphorisms that touch upon various facets of contemporary life, offering wisdom, wit, and memorable insights that challenge, engage, and amuse.
Definitely check this book out!
December 16, 2023
A book for the foolish, the wise
The nasty, the nice.
Aphorisms are concise statements or observations that express a general truth, principle or nuggets of wisdom, ideally in a memorable or witty manner. And this book is full of such golden nuggets of savvy insight.
The book is perfect for the new generation which has quite a short attention span and is only interested in witty and amusing conversation. Divided into 18 sections this book has 200+ aphorisms coined by the authors which are not only clever, but also very thought provoking.From impressing bosses to dealing with asses this book has it all.
Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias will get you hooked from the first to the last line.It feels like a journey through the banter of two highly intellectual friends,saying what a lot of people might think,but don't have the words to express.The graphics are beautiful and whimsical,credits to Priya Kuriyan.
Some of the aphorisms might be tough to understand but overall it is a read that will give the reader an adrenaline rush like no other and definitely feel quite relatable.
Additional aphorisms from Kofi Annan (ex UN Secretary General)are a bonus and make it all the more beautiful.
Last but not the least a huge amount of appreciation for Bena Sareen who has designed the cover giving it the irresistible look of a festive delicacy that you cannot miss.
The nasty, the nice.
Aphorisms are concise statements or observations that express a general truth, principle or nuggets of wisdom, ideally in a memorable or witty manner. And this book is full of such golden nuggets of savvy insight.
The book is perfect for the new generation which has quite a short attention span and is only interested in witty and amusing conversation. Divided into 18 sections this book has 200+ aphorisms coined by the authors which are not only clever, but also very thought provoking.From impressing bosses to dealing with asses this book has it all.
Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias will get you hooked from the first to the last line.It feels like a journey through the banter of two highly intellectual friends,saying what a lot of people might think,but don't have the words to express.The graphics are beautiful and whimsical,credits to Priya Kuriyan.
Some of the aphorisms might be tough to understand but overall it is a read that will give the reader an adrenaline rush like no other and definitely feel quite relatable.
Additional aphorisms from Kofi Annan (ex UN Secretary General)are a bonus and make it all the more beautiful.
Last but not the least a huge amount of appreciation for Bena Sareen who has designed the cover giving it the irresistible look of a festive delicacy that you cannot miss.
October 12, 2023
"The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" is an exceptional exploration of the timeless literary form of aphorisms, penned by the brilliant minds of Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias.
In essence, it emphasizes the importance of keen observation, often neglected in our busy lives. Tharoor and Zacharias stress the value of honing our inner awareness to recognize life's subtleties for personal growth. They eloquently depict aphorisms as concise yet profound observations, highlighting their profound wisdom.
The book acknowledges the challenge of making observations voluntarily, yet it highlights the joy of experiencing someone else's observations. Readers are encouraged to bask in the exhilarating experience of realizing the profound truths captured within these concise aphorisms.
The book features over 200 meticulously crafted aphorisms, each a valuable gem. These aphorisms explore diverse aspects of contemporary life, demonstrating the authors' mastery in succinctly conveying profound truths. Ultimately, the book stands as a testament to the timeless and enduring appeal of aphorisms, a cherished literary form that has persisted for centuries.
What distinguishes this book is its diverse range of aphorisms covering a wide array of subjects, providing insights into the intricacies of human nature, society, and life itself. The authors' modern aphorisms seamlessly align with the legacy of great aphorists like Seneca and Nietzsche, solidifying their position in this esteemed literary tradition.
This book's strength lies in its concise yet memorable expressions, which not only entertain but also provoke thought and introspection. Each aphorism encourages readers to reflect on their deeper meanings, offering a valuable source of wisdom and inspiration.
In today's era that values brevity and profound insights,it shines as a valuable gem. It not only honors the age-old art of aphorisms but also enhances our understanding of the modern world. This collection is a treasure trove of wisdom and wit, making it a must-read for those who admire concise, thought-provoking expressions.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
In essence, it emphasizes the importance of keen observation, often neglected in our busy lives. Tharoor and Zacharias stress the value of honing our inner awareness to recognize life's subtleties for personal growth. They eloquently depict aphorisms as concise yet profound observations, highlighting their profound wisdom.
The book acknowledges the challenge of making observations voluntarily, yet it highlights the joy of experiencing someone else's observations. Readers are encouraged to bask in the exhilarating experience of realizing the profound truths captured within these concise aphorisms.
The book features over 200 meticulously crafted aphorisms, each a valuable gem. These aphorisms explore diverse aspects of contemporary life, demonstrating the authors' mastery in succinctly conveying profound truths. Ultimately, the book stands as a testament to the timeless and enduring appeal of aphorisms, a cherished literary form that has persisted for centuries.
What distinguishes this book is its diverse range of aphorisms covering a wide array of subjects, providing insights into the intricacies of human nature, society, and life itself. The authors' modern aphorisms seamlessly align with the legacy of great aphorists like Seneca and Nietzsche, solidifying their position in this esteemed literary tradition.
This book's strength lies in its concise yet memorable expressions, which not only entertain but also provoke thought and introspection. Each aphorism encourages readers to reflect on their deeper meanings, offering a valuable source of wisdom and inspiration.
In today's era that values brevity and profound insights,it shines as a valuable gem. It not only honors the age-old art of aphorisms but also enhances our understanding of the modern world. This collection is a treasure trove of wisdom and wit, making it a must-read for those who admire concise, thought-provoking expressions.
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
August 18, 2024
Picked this up sort of by mistake when bulk buying books. It's a cute book, but not something I think I'd recommend. Maybe just to flip through when at the bookstore rather than to buy and keep.
October 29, 2023
The Less You Preach, the More You Learn: Aphorisms for Our Age by Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias is a compelling guide to self-improvement, wrapped in the timeless art of aphorisms. Tharoor and Zacharias, in their collaborative effort, distill a wealth of wisdom into concise, thought-provoking sayings that span across various aspects of life.
Whether you seek professional success, personal fulfillment, or better relationships, this book offers aphorisms to address your needs. It's a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to enhance their life's quality. The authors tackle complex subjects with remarkable brevity, making it accessible to a wide readership.
The aphorisms themselves are a testament to the authors' deep understanding of human nature and their gift for articulating profound insights in a few words. These sayings have the power to inspire and encourage reflection. Readers will find themselves returning to these aphorisms time and again for guidance and inspiration.
The book's historical perspective on aphorisms adds depth to the reading experience. By drawing from this ancient literary form, the authors connect modern readers to a rich tradition of concise wisdom.
While the book's format is a strength, it can also be a limitation. Some readers may yearn for more elaborate explanations or examples to accompany the aphorisms. Additionally, the sheer number of aphorisms can make it challenging to digest the wisdom fully in one sitting.
This book is a valuable addition to the self-help genre, offering timeless wisdom in bite-sized portions. Tharoor and Zacharias' aphorisms are a wellspring of inspiration, ideal for readers seeking guidance on personal growth and life improvement. This book's concise yet impactful approach sets it apart, making it a resource you can revisit whenever you seek motivation and insight.
Whether you seek professional success, personal fulfillment, or better relationships, this book offers aphorisms to address your needs. It's a comprehensive roadmap for anyone looking to enhance their life's quality. The authors tackle complex subjects with remarkable brevity, making it accessible to a wide readership.
The aphorisms themselves are a testament to the authors' deep understanding of human nature and their gift for articulating profound insights in a few words. These sayings have the power to inspire and encourage reflection. Readers will find themselves returning to these aphorisms time and again for guidance and inspiration.
The book's historical perspective on aphorisms adds depth to the reading experience. By drawing from this ancient literary form, the authors connect modern readers to a rich tradition of concise wisdom.
While the book's format is a strength, it can also be a limitation. Some readers may yearn for more elaborate explanations or examples to accompany the aphorisms. Additionally, the sheer number of aphorisms can make it challenging to digest the wisdom fully in one sitting.
This book is a valuable addition to the self-help genre, offering timeless wisdom in bite-sized portions. Tharoor and Zacharias' aphorisms are a wellspring of inspiration, ideal for readers seeking guidance on personal growth and life improvement. This book's concise yet impactful approach sets it apart, making it a resource you can revisit whenever you seek motivation and insight.
December 29, 2024
Rating 3.5 stars
Review - A book of aphorisms on 18 different subjects, some of them being mysteries of life, human nature, definition of success and happiness, family and relationships, history and even India. The pithy observations that contain truths, adages, wise and profound words here make a good year-end read, for you can carry forward some wisdom from them into the new year and maybe for even longer if you remember them.
Let not the choice of a basic/pretty popular aphorism for the title lead you into thinking that this collection will be drab. Some of the aphorisms here make you giggle and nod in approval, some make you think, even debate, some may even contradict what you consider as an axiom. Kofi Annan is quoted here quite a few times.
An enjoyable compilation you can dip into off and on, this book is available on Kindle Unlimited. The introduction by Shashi Tharoor on how the book was born is a treat to read. There are simple illustrations by Priya Kurian (she is one of my fav illustrators, a reason why I picked the book other than Shashi Tharoor's wit and language factor, the other author's wit too is appreciated by Tharoor).
Sharing some of my fav aphorisms from here -
1)Life is a paradox. We celebrate each birth even while knowing it comes with a sentence of death.
2)If you know the truth, don’t reveal it. Otherwise you will have to spend all your time lying about it.
3)Do and be damned. Procrastinate and be double damned.
4)When you try to learn everything about something you end up swallowing the wrapper along with the chocolate.
Review - A book of aphorisms on 18 different subjects, some of them being mysteries of life, human nature, definition of success and happiness, family and relationships, history and even India. The pithy observations that contain truths, adages, wise and profound words here make a good year-end read, for you can carry forward some wisdom from them into the new year and maybe for even longer if you remember them.
Let not the choice of a basic/pretty popular aphorism for the title lead you into thinking that this collection will be drab. Some of the aphorisms here make you giggle and nod in approval, some make you think, even debate, some may even contradict what you consider as an axiom. Kofi Annan is quoted here quite a few times.
An enjoyable compilation you can dip into off and on, this book is available on Kindle Unlimited. The introduction by Shashi Tharoor on how the book was born is a treat to read. There are simple illustrations by Priya Kurian (she is one of my fav illustrators, a reason why I picked the book other than Shashi Tharoor's wit and language factor, the other author's wit too is appreciated by Tharoor).
Sharing some of my fav aphorisms from here -
1)Life is a paradox. We celebrate each birth even while knowing it comes with a sentence of death.
2)If you know the truth, don’t reveal it. Otherwise you will have to spend all your time lying about it.
3)Do and be damned. Procrastinate and be double damned.
4)When you try to learn everything about something you end up swallowing the wrapper along with the chocolate.
November 4, 2023
“Delivering a treasure trove of carefully distilled wisdom in the form of thought-provoking aphorisms, ‘The less you preach the more you learn’ by Mr. Shashi Tharoor and Mr. Joseph captivates readers with its insightful, yet accessible, reflections.
In this book, readers are presented with a collection of 222 meticulously crafted insights, each serving as a lens through which to perceive everyday occurrences in a fresh light.
Mr. Tharoor’s trademark inventiveness and witticism shine through, stimulating intellectual engagement and eliciting genuine laughter.
The book’s resonant aphorisms, such as ‘Every expression of sympathy masks relief that it didn’t happen to you’ and ‘Criticism is free advice’. Gather as much as you can,’ invite readers to delve into introspection and self-improvement. The authors’ skillful blend of depth and clarity makes the content both relatable and enlightening, rendering the book an invaluable source of inspiration and reflection.
I personally could experience many bulb on “aha” moments.
While the contents are deeply thought-provoking, the writing style ensures accessibility for readers of all ages, making it an excellent resource for cultivating wisdom and perspective, both for personal contemplation and for sharing with younger generations.
‘The less you preach the more you learn’ is a compelling and enriching read, destined to remain a timeless companion for those seeking enduring insight and intellectual nourishment.”
In this book, readers are presented with a collection of 222 meticulously crafted insights, each serving as a lens through which to perceive everyday occurrences in a fresh light.
Mr. Tharoor’s trademark inventiveness and witticism shine through, stimulating intellectual engagement and eliciting genuine laughter.
The book’s resonant aphorisms, such as ‘Every expression of sympathy masks relief that it didn’t happen to you’ and ‘Criticism is free advice’. Gather as much as you can,’ invite readers to delve into introspection and self-improvement. The authors’ skillful blend of depth and clarity makes the content both relatable and enlightening, rendering the book an invaluable source of inspiration and reflection.
I personally could experience many bulb on “aha” moments.
While the contents are deeply thought-provoking, the writing style ensures accessibility for readers of all ages, making it an excellent resource for cultivating wisdom and perspective, both for personal contemplation and for sharing with younger generations.
‘The less you preach the more you learn’ is a compelling and enriching read, destined to remain a timeless companion for those seeking enduring insight and intellectual nourishment.”
November 4, 2023
An aphorism is one of the oldest forms of literary expression and has been around for thousands of years, mentions the blurb.
But what’s actual an aphorism?
It’s a pithy (concise) statement or observation that expresses a general truth, principle or nugget of wisdom, ideally in a memorable or witty manner.
These sayings are full of deep wisdom and insights. The aphorisms will help people unlock their potential, find success in life, love and work, and live their lives to the fullest. Wise and insightful, the aphorisms in The Less You Preach, the More You Learn: Aphorisms for Our Age will help you make your life better.
Have a look at some of my favourites-
🖋️The pessimist complains about the weather. The optimist declares it will change. The pragmatist goes out anyway with an umbrella.
🖋️ Sometimes it is better to lose an argument than a friend.
One of my favourites is actually from Kofi Annan- ‘Never hit a man on his head if you have your fingers between his teeth’.
But what’s actual an aphorism?
It’s a pithy (concise) statement or observation that expresses a general truth, principle or nugget of wisdom, ideally in a memorable or witty manner.
These sayings are full of deep wisdom and insights. The aphorisms will help people unlock their potential, find success in life, love and work, and live their lives to the fullest. Wise and insightful, the aphorisms in The Less You Preach, the More You Learn: Aphorisms for Our Age will help you make your life better.
Have a look at some of my favourites-
🖋️The pessimist complains about the weather. The optimist declares it will change. The pragmatist goes out anyway with an umbrella.
🖋️ Sometimes it is better to lose an argument than a friend.
One of my favourites is actually from Kofi Annan- ‘Never hit a man on his head if you have your fingers between his teeth’.
October 11, 2023
The Less You Preach, The More You Learn is a collection of over 200 aphorisms, or concise statements of wisdom, by Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zacharias. The authors are friends and former colleagues who have exchanged their thoughts on various topics over the years. The book is divided into six sections: Life, Love, Politics, Society, Religion, and Kerala. Each section contains a number of aphorisms that reflect the authors’ views, experiences, and insights on the subject.
The book is a delight to read for anyone who appreciates wit, wisdom, and wordplay. The aphorisms are often humorous, provocative, and paradoxical, challenging the reader to think deeper and question the conventional wisdom. Some of them are also personal, revealing the authors’ own struggles and successes in life.
The book is a delight to read for anyone who appreciates wit, wisdom, and wordplay. The aphorisms are often humorous, provocative, and paradoxical, challenging the reader to think deeper and question the conventional wisdom. Some of them are also personal, revealing the authors’ own struggles and successes in life.
October 31, 2023
This book presents 200 aphorisms - simply put an observation put forward in a witty way which speaks an unavoidable, mandatory truth about life!
.
It has 18 different sections bringing in together all that we face in our life and taken from the author's observation of life! It also has little illustrations and is overall beautifully represented in terms of being pretty! The cover is really quirky too!
.
What I really loved about the book is that in the facade of this being fun it actually speaks very relatable and true facts. If we can imbibe what this book puts forwards in between its cover as subtle life lessons - we would probably be more strong human beings! Can be read at any point, from any point and at one go!
.
.
It has 18 different sections bringing in together all that we face in our life and taken from the author's observation of life! It also has little illustrations and is overall beautifully represented in terms of being pretty! The cover is really quirky too!
.
What I really loved about the book is that in the facade of this being fun it actually speaks very relatable and true facts. If we can imbibe what this book puts forwards in between its cover as subtle life lessons - we would probably be more strong human beings! Can be read at any point, from any point and at one go!
.
June 10, 2024
It's collection of 222 Aphorisms(a short clever saying that is intended to express a general truth) is divided into many chapters with similar aphorisms in each chapter.
This is not a book to be read in one sitting, like read once a day when bored.
These sayings aren't new we may heard or read them somewhere but the collection is good we read & re-read them again.
Some of the Aphorisms I liked are,
1. Making the right decision too late is often worse than making the wrong decision early. You might still have time to correct your mistake.
2. Grief and healing both come from within. The most well-meaning friend cannot reduce your grief or promote your healing.
3. Our founding fathers wrote a Constitution for their dreams. We have given passports to their ideals
This is not a book to be read in one sitting, like read once a day when bored.
These sayings aren't new we may heard or read them somewhere but the collection is good we read & re-read them again.
Some of the Aphorisms I liked are,
1. Making the right decision too late is often worse than making the wrong decision early. You might still have time to correct your mistake.
2. Grief and healing both come from within. The most well-meaning friend cannot reduce your grief or promote your healing.
3. Our founding fathers wrote a Constitution for their dreams. We have given passports to their ideals
July 15, 2024
The aphorism is one of the oldest forms of literary expression and has been around for thousands of years. It is a concise statement or observation that expresses a general truth, principle or nugget of wisdom, ideally in a memorable or witty manner.
In the tradition of Seneca, Nietsche, Oscar Wilde and Taleb, Tharoor and Zacharias have also coined over 200 aphorisms on practically every aspect of modern life. Wise, witty and memorable the aphorisms in this beautiful book provoke, stimulate and entertain the discerning reader.
Ex ~ It is the fate of the wise to understand the process of history and yet never to shape it.
~The glass is neither half empty or half full. It is a glass waiting for us to pour something into it.
~ Good advice is that which stops in time.
In the tradition of Seneca, Nietsche, Oscar Wilde and Taleb, Tharoor and Zacharias have also coined over 200 aphorisms on practically every aspect of modern life. Wise, witty and memorable the aphorisms in this beautiful book provoke, stimulate and entertain the discerning reader.
Ex ~ It is the fate of the wise to understand the process of history and yet never to shape it.
~The glass is neither half empty or half full. It is a glass waiting for us to pour something into it.
~ Good advice is that which stops in time.
October 14, 2023
"The Less You Preach, The More You Learn" is a charming collection of 222 aphorisms that offer readers profound wisdom in a concise and engaging format. The book commences with an introduction where Shashi Tharoor shares their professional history, which began when he hired Joseph Zacharias for an academy of business communication in 2007. Their personal connection adds intimacy to the aphorisms. These concise gems are both witty and thought-provoking, making them ideal for daily reflection. The book's unique feature is the clear attribution of aphorisms to either Tharoor or Zacharias, allowing readers to appreciate their distinct voices. A bedside companion worth revisiting.
November 3, 2023
The less you expect from life the happier you are
The less you preach The more you learn - Aphorism for our age by Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zaharias is a collection of aphorisms on different aspects like the mysteries of life, bravery and cowardice, fauth friemds foes etc.
Aphorisms means short sayings wittingly expressing truths of life. This book contained really intelligent and realistic observations of life and it was so fun to read. We all know how witty Shashi Tharoor is and it is well expressed in this book.
Last but not the least the cover is just so so beautiful I love it so much.
The less you preach The more you learn - Aphorism for our age by Shashi Tharoor and Joseph Zaharias is a collection of aphorisms on different aspects like the mysteries of life, bravery and cowardice, fauth friemds foes etc.
Aphorisms means short sayings wittingly expressing truths of life. This book contained really intelligent and realistic observations of life and it was so fun to read. We all know how witty Shashi Tharoor is and it is well expressed in this book.
Last but not the least the cover is just so so beautiful I love it so much.
October 3, 2023
Observations are critical as well as crucial for existing. Unless we empower our inward eye, notice things that generally go unnoticed, we cannot learn to evolve. Aphorisms are these small observations. I know when I say that making an observation voluntarily is difficult but reading someone else's observations and basking in the joy of realizing that they're so much real is a different kind of exhilarating experience.
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
Read the full review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/category-...
December 2, 2023
Useful Anthology
The book compiles some interesting aphorisms and the authors divide them into category wise chapters. I was looking for some inputs for my office interiors & borrowed some of these pithy posts to be used as content for posters.
The book compiles some interesting aphorisms and the authors divide them into category wise chapters. I was looking for some inputs for my office interiors & borrowed some of these pithy posts to be used as content for posters.
October 31, 2023
This is a collection of Aphorisms of various themes.
November 6, 2023
Ok
Founding to be an ok collection. My favourite aphorism were the ones related to history. Maybe the author could have given a brief description on the main aphorisms
Founding to be an ok collection. My favourite aphorism were the ones related to history. Maybe the author could have given a brief description on the main aphorisms
January 14, 2024
Amazing!!
January 25, 2024
An eye-opener
March 3, 2024
Good collection
March 21, 2024
Life learnings
Lessons / wisdom distilled from the authors experiences. Something to learn for everyone. Many are timeless ideas and self explanatory.
Lessons / wisdom distilled from the authors experiences. Something to learn for everyone. Many are timeless ideas and self explanatory.
Read
May 31, 2024The moment I saw Tharoor on it, I read it, but it's not as good as Taleb's aphorism.
Read
June 18, 2024Cute. Expected a bit more words though
July 14, 2024
Amazing book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2025
shashi you're like 70 this is not deep.
March 19, 2025
Short and witty.
June 6, 2025
Quotes quality - Bad. 2
Illustration - Average. 3
Writing standard - Average.3
Pithy/Usefulness- 2.5
Recommendability- 2
Longevity- 2
Overall- 2 stars.
Illustration - Average. 3
Writing standard - Average.3
Pithy/Usefulness- 2.5
Recommendability- 2
Longevity- 2
Overall- 2 stars.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews