Arthur Schopenhauer’s The Artwork of Literature is a lively, illuminating and brutally honest collection of essays on literary design and values, writers and critics, and the type of genius. The volume is comprised of eight chapters: On Authorship, On Style, On the Study of Latin, On Men of Learning, On Thinking for Oneself, On Criticism, On Reputation and On Genius. Schopenhauer advises seclusion and 3rd party thought, criticises Pliny’s reading habits, and explains the pitfalls of particular schools of thought as well as virtues like modesty. His thought-provoking arguments, caustic wit and accessible style make this a must for just about any aspiring writer.