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The Stranger: International Edition

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The Stranger: International Edition

By: Albert Camus
Narrated by: Jonathan Davis
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Summary

With millions of copies sold, The Stranger is one of the most widely read novels in the world. It stands as perhaps the greatest existentialist tale ever conceived.

When a young Algerian named Meursault kills a man, his subsequent imprisonment and trial are puzzling and absurd. 

This remarkable translation by Matthew Ward has been considered the definitive English version since its original publication.

©2012 Albert Camus (P)2020 Recorded Books, Inc. Classics Fiction Genre Fiction Literary Fiction Psychological
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A great analysis of how outsiders can be treated if they struggle to understand behaviour that is considered “normal”.

The most entertaining “philosophical “ book imo

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I've personally only read The Plague out of Camus' library prior to this and can see why he stands out in French classic literature.
Perhaps I am bias as an enjoyer of such exestential, nihilistic characters, despite not being one myself.
As for this translation, it was pleasant. as for the audio, it was dated but I tend to enjoy the feel as it reminds me of cassette (without the skipping and constant risk of tape-destruction) and worthy of 4/5 for me.

a classic for a reason.

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Pondering the philosophical writings of the times presented in story format from which to examine meaning/ absence of meaning etc

Engaging

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In crafting the simplistic and the morally ambivalent, we get to reflect on our own values.

A deeper understanding of humanity

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The Stranger is a book about a detached outcast who does not perceive society conventionally, nor sees value in subscribing to its values or customs. Elements of it will resonate with all, as the feeling of alienation is so ubiquitous (though for most, transient) such as to be universal.

It is thought-provoking, but in a somewhat shallow way: existentialism and absurdism are hardly groundbreaking philosophies (though admittedly would have been more so at the time of release).

The novel's strength lies in its unique portrayal of the absurd, manifested through the character of Meursault, rather than through fantastical events or settings. What happens to Meursault is perfectly explicable, yet readers are nonetheless likely to sympathise (or even empathise) with him.

The book is short and to the point, but if one wishes to consume a sharp, thought-provoking philosophical work of Camus, then “one must imagine Sisyphus happy”.

We live in a society

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