The Stoic Magazine Library

Stoic literature, especially for a casual reader, is not brimming with joy. Probably because of that, over time, the word ‘stoic’ came to be associated with enduring hardship without complaining rather than with the joy of living.

This an excerpt form David Fideler’s new book Breakfast with Seneca, published by W. W. Norton, 2021. 265 pages. Excerpts published by permission.

“Stoic joy is a product of a deep dive into what it means to progress along the path of human flourishing and the peace of mind that comes when the superficial slips away.”

Great wisdom traditions tell great stories. Stories help us learn and remember difficult or elusive ideas. Stories humanize complex concepts. And stories about people are relatable – especially if we can put ourselves in the shoes of the story’s character(s).

“You don’t depend on other people or circumstances for a good life. Instead, you possess the inner resources to find joy whatever you are doing.”

“This is the genius of Stoicism: removing the factors that eclipse joy.”

“Stoicism itself in nothing else than one great elaboration on human happiness.”

Stoic quotes for every day of the month