Book review of The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table

Oliver Wendell Holmes's The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table is a delightful and insightful collection of essays presented as overheard conversations at a Boston boarding house. The "Autocrat," a charming and erudite character based on Holmes himself, leads lively discussions with a colorful cast of companions. Their exchanges cover a wide range of topics, from poetry and philosophy to everyday life and social issues, all seasoned with Holmes's signature wit and keen observations. This engaging narrative offers a captivating glimpse into 19th-century New England society, exploring themes of human nature, relationships, and the complexities of life with both intellectual depth and playful humor. Prepare for a stimulating and entertaining breakfast of ideas.

Hardcover 35.99 USD

Paperback 12.51 USD

3.5 / 9 ratings

Review The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table

Oh, I absolutely adored The Autocrat of the Breakfast-Table! It's one of those books that's a pleasure just to hold, a beautiful object in itself – I loved the feel of the older edition I read, even if the pages were a little fragile. But the contents? They completely sealed the deal. Oliver Wendell Holmes is a master! His wit is razor-sharp, his intelligence dazzling, and his insights into human nature are both timeless and surprisingly modern.

The whole premise – a series of charmingly rambling conversations at a Boston boarding house – is utterly captivating. It’s not a fast-paced, plot-driven novel, but that's precisely what makes it so special. It's more like eavesdropping on a brilliant, witty friend who's sharing his thoughts and observations on life, literature, philosophy, and everything in between. His reflections on everything from the art of conversation (and his dismissal of pun-making as “verbicide” had me chuckling) to the power of memory and the beauty of simple things like rowing or trees are simply delightful. The interspersed poems add a lovely lyrical touch, too.

I completely agree with those who say it’s a monological narrative. The other boarders are there, adding little comments and interjections, but it's really the Autocrat's voice that dominates and carries the book. And that voice? It's utterly captivating. Holmes manages to be both erudite and approachable, philosophical and humorous, all at the same time. He transported me right back to 19th-century Boston, immersing me in a world of leisurely conversations and thoughtful reflection. It felt like a much-needed escape from the hectic pace of modern life, a chance to slow down and savor the richness of simply thinking and talking.

There were a couple of minor drawbacks. I, too, found the French passages a bit of a hurdle (my French is, shall we say, non-existent), and the budding romance towards the end felt a little tacked on and less engaging than the rest of the book. However, these were truly minor quibbles in the face of the overall brilliance of the work.

Honestly, reading The Autocrat felt like sitting down for a delightful breakfast with a fascinating, incredibly intelligent, and witty friend. It's a book that rewards careful reading, prompting reflection and offering a wealth of thought-provoking ideas. For anyone who appreciates a bit of intellectual stimulation with their charm, this is a must-read. And for those with an affection for all things Boston Brahmin, it's simply essential. It's a book that stays with you long after you've finished the last page, a testament to Holmes's enduring talent. I wholeheartedly recommend it.

Information

• Dimensions: 6 x 0.46 x 9 inches
• Language: English
• Print length: 204
• Publication date: 2024

Book table of contents

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