Overall Thoughts
This book was published in 1774, and therefore requires some intense concentration to read (link to Amazon). It’s a shorter book, but because the language is dated it takes some time to digest. The entire book is written from the protagonist’s perspective (in fact, they are diary entries). Essentially, it’s about a young man (Mr. Werther) who falls in love with a woman who is married. He goes through depression, various forms of reconciliation, and a form of resolution. For me, it was interesting to read what someone wrote so long ago.
Impactful Quotes
“I know very well that we are not all equal, nor can be so; but it is my opinion that he who avoids the common people, in order to not lose their respect, is as much to blame as a coward who hides himself from his enemy because he fears defeat.”
This quote is very powerful because it transcends time. In other words, there were people in the 1700’s who thought so highly of themselves that they didn’t want to mix with the “common” folk. We see this today with people who are wealthy, have a following, etc. The point here is that by shutting yourself off from the “common” people you are a coward because you don’t want them to bring you down. Embrace your culture. Embrace your family. Embrace where you come from. Don’t ever think you’re too good to be around someone.
“So much simplicity with so much understanding-so mild, and yet so resolute-a mind so placid, and a life so active.”
This is Werther’s attempt to describe his crush to us. Before this quote he mentions that everybody describes their girl in incredible ways and he has trouble finding the words because she captivates all parts of him. I like his description, though.
“The silly creatures [humans] cannot see that it is not place which constitutes real greatness, since the man who occupies the first place but seldom plays the principal part. How many kings are governed by their ministers-how many ministers by their secretaries? Who, in such cases, is really the chief? He, as it seems to me, who can see through the others, and possesses strength or skill enough to make their power or passions subservient to the execution of his own designs.”
What Werther is saying here is that everyone owes their success to someone. His example of the kings, minister and secretaries is a perfect one. We can take this example and translate it to something relevant such as a CEO of company relying so much on his board, and the board relying so much on their secretaries, etc. We can’t do everything on our own, and it’s worth realizing this quickly and working with people in a way that benefits all parties. If it doesn’t, it’s important to not take all of the credit and acknowledge the people on your team who have helped along the way.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a quick but challenging and thought-provoking read, I would recommend this book.
★★★☆☆