High Five Tuesday - November 7, 2023
“Tower of Babylon” story by Ted Chiang, Naval Ravikant on The Knowledge Podcast, “He Who Fights With Monsters” book 9, the simplest pasta I’ve cooked, and a quote from Seneca.
Hello friends 👋
I'm Igor, and welcome to my weekly newsletter where I highlight the five coolest things I've discovered this week.
Each week I explore questions about building a business, personal growth, philosophy, movies, music, gadgets, books, working with humans, and anything else that piques my curiosity. If you like what you read, don’t hesitate to pass it along to your friends and consider subscribing.
A short story I’ve enjoyed
“Tower of Babylon” by Ted Chiang. Ted Chiang's award-winning short story, Tower of Babylon, is a thrilling journey into the ancient myth of the Tower of Babel.
In this piece of science fiction, Chiang audaciously questions the cosmological beliefs widely held at the time, introducing a discovery as astounding as the mega-construction project itself.
The simplest pasta I’ve cooked
I enjoy hosting friends. However, preparing a meal for more than four can be a bit of a scramble. That's why I'm always scouting for simple recipes. Last Friday, I tried out "Garlic Parmesan Pasta". It's a quick dish, ready in 30 minutes tops. For a twist, consider swapping butter with olive oil and tossing in some prawns for an extra flavor kick.
Fantasy series I’ve been reading for months
A few months back, my friend Pierre nudged me towards the "He Who Fights with Monsters" series. Nine books later, I'm still engrossed, thanks to the captivating universe crafted by Travis Deverell, aka Shirtaloon.
The series offers a rich, immersive world, filled with complex characters and a perfect balance of humor and depth. For me it's more than a series; it's a mental escape, a form of meditation.
If you're in search of a new literary journey, I highly recommend "He Who Fights with Monsters". It's a ride you won't regret.
Podcast I’m listening
“Naval Ravikant: The Angel Philosopher” on The Knowledge Project podcast.
Naval Ravikant, a respected entrepreneur, angel investor, and modern philosopher, has significantly influenced my perspective on wealth, happiness, and self-understanding.
Every year, I find myself revisiting Naval's ideas, and now is that time again. His philosophical approach to life, characterized by profound insights and the ability to simplify complex ideas, has reshaped my thinking and provided valuable guidance in both my personal and professional life.
For those interested in delving into his insights, I recommend listening to the Naval Ravikant episode on The Knowledge Project podcast. Alternatively, you can explore my key takeaways from this episode, which I've outlined below.
Happiness is that state, when nothing is missing. And when nothing is missing your mind shuts down.
Every positive thought in itself holds a negative thought.
The ability to singularly focus is related to the ability to lose yourself and be present and happy.
The attraction of drugs is spiritual.
If being ethical was profitable, everybody would do it.
Quote I’m pondering
“Our fears are always more numerous than our dangers.”
— Lucius Annaeus Seneca (Roman philosopher, c.4 BC-65 AD)
Until we meet again next week 👋 Here's to a week filled with purpose and joy!
If you find this newsletter valuable, don’t hesitate to pass it along to your friends, follow me on Linkedin, and consider subscribing.
Yours,
Igor