The Most Memorable and Impactful Books and Movies: How They Changed Me

Throughout my life, the books and movies I have consumed have played a significant role in shaping my thoughts, attitudes, and overall worldview. Some have left an indelible mark on my mind, inspiring me to pursue creative endeavors and fostering a deeper understanding of human nature and society. In this article, I will share a few of the most memorable and impactful books and movies I have experienced and how they have influenced me.

Self-Help for You

One of the books that truly transformed my life and still holds a special place at 92, is Life is Simple Book by Henry Hamer. Although it is a self-help book that may seem straightforward, its simplicity and practicality have been a powerful tool for personal growth. The book has been published on Amazon and has had a profound impact on my life, leading me to compile and publish my own work. This experience has made me more appreciative of the value of simplicity and easy-to-follow guidance.

A Brother’s Guide to Thailand: A Wary Perspective

Another memorable book is Private Dancer by Stephen Leather, which serves as a guide for men traveling to Thailand. While the book was interesting and informative, it made me cautious about the people in the country, highlighting the importance of being aware of one's surroundings in unfamiliar places.

Dead Souls: A Masterpiece of Thought-Provoking Literature

Dead Souls by Nikolai Gogol is undoubtedly one of my all-time favorite books. Despite its unfinished nature, Gogol's profound exploration of dehumanization, where individuals are reduced to mere commodities, has left a lasting impact on me. The portrayal of a society where people are mere objects of exchange is both disturbing and thought-provoking. Reading this book made me acutely aware of how societal conditions can shape individual behavior and how these behaviors, in turn, allow said conditions to persist.

This book also sparked a deeper interest in me to explore the human condition and societal structures, ultimately leading to an interest in writing. The themes of dehumanization, social critique, and the impact of societal norms on individuals have remained with me over the years, influencing my own writing and critical thinking.

The Pilgrim’s Progress: A Literary Journey through Allegory

The Pilgrim’s Progress, both in its book form and movie adaptations, offers a unique literary journey through allegory. The movie represents the Bible under the literary technique of two separate dreams, intricately connecting it to the influential book The Pilgrim’s Progress by John Bunyan. Bunyan's work has had a significant impact on literature and has influenced other notable works such as Alice in Wonderland and The Wizard of Oz. This book's writing style and themes have inspired creative storytelling and provided a deeper understanding of religious and moral allegories.

Star Wars: A Creative Catalyst

The movie that has had the single greatest lasting impact on me is Star Wars (1977). This iconic film has not only fueled my imagination but has also inspired countless others to pursue their own creative projects. The world-building and atmosphere created by George Lucas have been a source of endless inspiration for me, as well as for millions of fans around the world.

Metamagical Themas: A Deep Dive into Rationality

Metamagical Themas by Douglas Hofstadter is another book that had a lasting impact on me. While this book covers a wide range of topics, the chapters on the Prisoner's Dilemma and the concept of "super-rationality" made the most significant impression. Super-rationality is the idea that rational individuals can deduce when others are acting rationally, leading to a more collaborative and harmonious outcome. This concept has influenced my thinking on how cooperation and rational behaviors can drive positive social outcomes.

Both Star Wars and Metamagical Themas have been transformative in my personal and intellectual journey, shaping the way I view the world and approach challenges. These experiences have taught me the importance of persistent curiosity, creative thinking, and the profound impact that art and literature can have on one's life.