Question Everything: The Examined Life of Socrates
Timeless truths with relevance for today. The life, teachings, and death of Socrates, the person acclaimed by many to be the world's greatest philosopher, presented with humor, to inform as well as entertain in a manner as creative and carefree as the man himself.
While on trial, sure of his innocence, that he was only arraigned out of jealousy, Socrates recounts his life with veracity and wit, presenting his life in exciting, entertaining, and comedic ways, but then the verdict takes a turn for the worse. Despite the protests of his friends, Socrates refuses to escape the bitter sentencing.
Written Humorously, But with the Utmost of Respect
Ray Divine presents the life of Socrates as never before. Although Socrates has often been parodied (by Woody Allen, by Steve Martin, in "Bill & Ted's Most Excellent Adventure", etc.), this book chooses not to mock this fascinating man, but rather presents its comedy with admiration, awe, and appreciation for the philosopher deemed by many to be the greatest of them all.
Says the author "I feel the humor, which is organic to the story, reflects the jovial nature of this great philosopher." Divine also admits taking some poetic license, eschewing the details of certain facts to make key points in Socrates' life, without having the humor mock the man, but rather enhance our understanding of someone so unique and clever and truly ahead of his time. Capturing the spirit of the man, if not the letter as well. Rated PG-13.
Snippets
But just when the teacher thought it was safe to teach an inquisitive child, young Socrates asked, "So what makes a good life for you?"
Solon stammered. "That's. That's personal."
Rolling his eyes, young Socrates shook his head. "So you still have no idea. Not even for yourself?"
With an echoing foot stomp, the teacher shouted, "Two plus two equals four! Any questions related to that?"
As the young man grimaced, the young woman glared at Socrates.
"My advice?" said Socrates. "By all means, marry."
Sighing, the young man and the young woman smiled.
Socrates returned their smile with a wry one of his own. "If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher."
Plato shook his head in disbelief. "You lived all these years; and you never wrote anything?"
"That's not true," said Socrates. "Just last week, I wrote what Xanthippe wanted me to buy at the market."
Faithful Plato, who'd been with Socrates for so long, stood to his feet and waved his fist at Democritus. "This is an outrage! A travesty! A! A! Outrageous travesty!"
Socrates pat Plato's shoulder to assuage his friend's fury. "Maybe the gadfly wasn't my best metaphor."
Those sitting rolled their eyes at Crito.
"Don't be like that," said Crito. "I come with the best news ever!"
Apollodorus brightened a bit. "The court acquiesced and decided to set Socrates free?"
Crito slumped a bit. "No. I come with the second best news ever."
"Sneak away? I shall not," said Socrates. "Even if convicted unjustly, a righteous person must respect the law."
Bam! Crito pounded on the bars in frustration. "Don't be so selfish, Socrates! Think of me. If you die, people will think me too cheap to bribe the guards to let you escape."
Why Is Socrates So Fascinating?
Take a Look Inside! Perhaps this rendition of his life, teachings, and death will shed light on that mystery. Or maybe you'll just laugh and go on your way. But either way, you should enjoy yourself. So Click the Buy Button Now to purchase this book and discover Socrates again. Or perhaps, for the very first time, which will be a true treat indeed.