NONFICTION

Measure Yourself Against the Earth: Essays

by Mark Kingwell
Biblioasis. 2015. 344p. notes. ISBN 9781771960465. pap. $17.95; ebk. ISBN 9781771960472. PHIL
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This is a collection of Kingwell's (philosophy, Univ. of Toronto; Unruly Voices) essays based around the themes of walking, leisure, and finding time for one's self. The self is an important topic in Kingwell's work, as he explores one's place in the world as well as the titular measuring of the self. The text is written in a fun, almost whimsical, tone that befits the topic, and lends well to readability. However, it also makes the work a bit erratic. The essays don't gel together as a cohesive whole, and moving from one to another in one sitting results in a work that feels disjointed. The tone and themes may not connect perfectly, but they are affecting.
VERDICT While this title is entertaining, the topics on display are lofty and academic. The average reader of philosophy will enjoy the way the text meanders from topic to topic, but it's not for everyone.
Reviewed by Matthew Gallagher, Victoria, BC , Dec 01, 2015
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