Shahnameh BookCity Bridges Philosophy and Modern Life in Discussion of Sarah Bakewell’s Work

On Tuesday, February 5, 2025, Shahnameh BookCity in Mashhad hosted the 26th installment of its acclaimed Tuesdays of Life Wisdom series—a vibrant discussion centered on Sarah Bakewell’s How to Live: A Life of Montaigne in One Question and Twenty Answers (translated by Maryam Taghdisi). Philosopher and researcher Amin Fardoos-Ara led the event, unpacking Michel de Montaigne’s timeless wisdom and his unconventional approach to navigating life’s everyday challenges. “Montaigne’s essays,” Fardoos-Ara remarked, “are not just relics of the Renaissance; they’re a masterclass in turning introspection into practical philosophy, resonating deeply with modern seekers of meaning.”

Fardoos-Ara began by dissecting Montaigne’s central question: How to live? “This isn’t merely a book title,” he explained, “but a foundational inquiry into the art of living well. Montaigne’s willingness to confront doubt, mortality, and human frailty with humor and honesty paved the way for thinkers across centuries—from Nietzsche to contemporary existentialists.” The audience, a mix of philosophy enthusiasts and casual readers, leaned into anecdotes about Montaigne’s rejection of dogma and his celebration of curiosity as life’s guiding force.

A lively Q&A session followed, where attendees debated Montaigne’s relevance in today’s fast-paced world. One participant noted, “His emphasis on self-reflection feels radical in an age of digital distraction,” sparking a conversation about balancing modern life with philosophical grounding. Such exchanges epitomize BookCity’s mission to transform literary analysis into communal dialogue, bridging historical wisdom with contemporary struggles.

The event underscored BookCity’s commitment to reviving not only classic literary works but also philosophical traditions that shape human thought. By spotlighting texts like Bakewell’s How to Live, BookCity fosters spaces where ancient questions—“How to live?”—are reimagined through modern lenses. This aligns with their broader cultural vision: nurturing empathy and critical thinking through curated discussions that honor the past while engaging the present.