Late Night Thoughts on Listening to Mahler's Ninth Symphony

Written by Lewis Thomas

Narrated by George Guidall

This collection of 24 essays is a perfect introduction to the world of Lewis Thomas. Topics ranging from the riddle of smelling to nuclear proliferation carry the gentle, unassuming persuasiveness that characterizes the author's work. Here we are also introduced to the concerns that have distinguished Thomas' literary career: the natural altruism of organisms; the inter-relatedness of all creatures; the fragility of the human species; the uneasiness of life on a threatened planet.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Nov 4, 2011
• ISBN: 9781461812593

Reviews for Late Night Thoughts on Listening to Mahler's Ninth Symphony

[sylviac_43 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I always enjoy Lewis Thomas' writing, although this one is quite dated. Most of his late night thoughts are touched by the threat of nuclear war. Unfortunately, some of his concerns are still valid 30 years later.

[edwinbcn · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

A bit disappointing. With an average length of seven pages, I would not call these essays, and most are mere observations or snippets of knowledge, without discussion in depth, which would have interested me more. As a result, the book also appears dated.

[gwendolyndawson · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is an Interesting collection of essays. Some are relevant and thought-provoking for today. Others were a bit dated and too focused on the build-up of nuclear weapons. The author's voice is down to earth and approachable, yet authoritative and experienced.