Solitude: A Philosophical Encounter

by Philip J. Koch

What is the proper place of solitude in human existence? Some thinkers have claimed that solitude is our truest, most ultimate, metaphysically deepest state of being. Others have maintained the contrary view that it is in encounter that we most truly find ourselves. In Koch's A Philosophical Encounter, both solitude and encounter emerge as primary modes of human experience, equally essential for human completion.

Genres: Philosophy, Nonfiction

390 pages, Paperback

First published May 1, 1994

Reviews

[James Henderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is an encounter with both the nature of solitude and the thinkers who have written about solitude. Some of these thinkers are writers who I already knew and admired and some, at least on this topic, were new to me. Comprising two sections, one on the "nature of solitude" and another evaluating its existence it seems to encompass the subject well without exceeding the patience of the solitary reader.
The author presents arguments for and against solitude as a theoretical and practical matter. The culture and philosophy of solitude is considered. But most to my liking were the moments when specific writers' thoughts were presented. They ask questions like Byron's "Then stirs the feeling infinite, so felt
In solitude, where we are least alone;".
Are we alone or not when we cling to solitude? Is solitude like Robert Byrd's "long night as black as that on the dark side of the moon" or is it brightly illumined by our own "power of joy, we see into the life of things" as Wordsworth poetically proclaims. The wealth of questions and information about solitude is presented and assessed, but each individual reader will have to decide for himself what answers are best suited to his life. However for me, I prefer the freedom expressed by Henry David Thoreau:

[Trevor Clements · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book probably 30 years ago and just remember that it really made an impression on me. I liked the philosophical bent and excerpts from other writers. My memory of specifics is pretty faded but I know it had a big impact on own philosophy of balancing the need and appreciation of solitude with that of engagement. I think it's high time for a second reading.

[MountainAshleah · Rating 3 out of 5]

It took me forever to work through this book. If you read one book about solitude, I would not recommend this one. It's definitely well researched, chock full of information, but the author is an academic, and so it's written in a rather old-fashioned philosophical style (takes me back to my undergraduate days plowing through so many ponderous tomes). Anyway, this book is essential if you're on a lifelong exploration of solitude, as I am, I've even published on the subject, but for the casual reader, look elsewhere.

[rinflin · Rating 5 out of 5]

It took me three days to finish this book, and during this entire time, I disengaged from social encounters without much effort. This gives me hope that people can bring solitude back into their lives. There isn't a hint of social media—otherwise, there would have been an extra hundred pages. This was definitely a hard read, but equally rewarding. I don't think this book misses anything relevant to its time, but that also makes it hard for beginners. There are also many redundant parts, which I didn’t mind because the arguments were solid. One of the best reads this year.

[Gustav Pallesen · Rating 4 out of 5]

read everything besides the last 2 chapters. quite good albeit a bit repetitive

[Jeff Russo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Too foofily written for my taste. Really, was I expecting otherwise? No. Oh well. All I can do here is report my reaction.