Does It Matter by Alan Watts - A 300-Word Book Review
Essays on Man’s Relation to Materiality
Rating: 9.5/10
Pages: 128
Time To Finish: 3 days — 500 pages/day
Where To Purchase: Amazon
What is it about?
This is a compilation of essays by Alan Watts, primarily about our relationship with the material environment. He writes, of course, in a typical Alan Watts type of way: witty, curiosity-driven, and thought-provoking.
He goes through numerous different concepts, including cooking/eating, clothing, water, and many more. Each is just as interesting as the last.
My favourite parts
It’s hard to pick a favourite part as each of the essays had something good to say. But I’d have to say I very much enjoyed it when he tears apart the idea of clothing.
He talks about how men have to wear uncomfortable suits and women their dressed. In a perfect world, perhaps men would be wearing a comfortable, colourful Japanese Kimono, and women an Indian Sari.
I must say, I’d love to wear a kimonos everywhere.
It is also interesting to hear some of his predictions many years later. Of course, not all came true, but still a good read regardless.
Who should read it?
Anyone who likes philosophy may enjoy this one. Although those who want deep philosophy may not find this book to be enough.
If you enjoy any Alan Watts writing, though, this is one of the better reads.
Additional thoughts
It’s easy to hammer through this book, but I’d recommend taking your time with it. Let your mind wander between essays!