In "What I Talk About When I Talk About Running," Haruki Murakami intertwines his passion for long-distance running with deep reflections on life, creativity, and the pursuit of personal excellence. Through his candid narratives, Murakami reveals how running shapes his writing process and existential musings. Each chapter presents a compelling blend of memoir and philosophy, inviting readers to explore the parallels between endurance sports and the artistic journey. With vivid descriptions and introspective insights, he unveils the transformative power of pushing one's limits. What starts as a meditation on running evolves into a compelling exploration of what it truly means to live and create.
By Haruki Murakami
Published: 2008
"I love to run early in the morning, before the world gets going, before the noise of the day begins."
An intimate look at writing, running, and the incredible way they intersect, What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is an illuminating glimpse into the solitary passions of one of our greatest artists. While training for the New York City Marathon, Haruki Murakami decided to keep a journal of his progress. The result is a memoir about his intertwined obsessions with running and writing, full of vivid recollections and insights, including the eureka moment when he decided to become a writer. By turns funny and sobering, playful and philosophical, here is a rich and revelatory work that elevates the human need for motion to an art form.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Aileen Lee is a distinguished venture capitalist and founder of Cowboy Ventures, a seed-stage venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies. She is widely known for coining the term "unicorn" to describe startups valued at over $1 billion, significantly impacting how the tech industry views high-growth companies. Lee's keen eye for innovation and her advocacy for diversity in tech have made her a prominent figure in Silicon Valley. Beyond her financial acumen, she has authored insightful articles on entrepreneurship and startup culture, contributing valuable perspectives to business literature. Lee's work continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
Sahil Lavingia is an accomplished entrepreneur and writer, best known as the founder and CEO of Gumroad, a platform that enables creators to sell products directly to consumers. His book "The Minimalist Entrepreneur" distills his philosophy on building sustainable, lean startups that prioritize long-term vision and customer value over rapid scaling. Lavingia's work has inspired a new generation of entrepreneurs to focus on simplicity and self-reliance. Additionally, he is recognized for his thoughtful essays and blog posts that delve into the intersection of technology, business, and creativity. Through his contributions to literature and his leadership at Gumroad, Lavingia has significantly influenced modern startup culture.
Adam Grant is a renowned organizational psychologist and bestselling author, celebrated for his influential work on motivation and workplace dynamics. He is a professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he has been the youngest tenured professor and earned numerous teaching awards. Grant's books, including "Give and Take," "Originals," and "Think Again," have been translated into multiple languages and have topped bestseller lists worldwide. His research and insights are frequently featured in major media outlets, and he hosts the popular podcast "WorkLife." Through his writing and speaking, Grant has profoundly impacted the fields of psychology, business, and education.
Tony Robbins is a life coach, motivational speaker, and bestselling author known for his self-help books, including Awaken the Giant Within and Unlimited Power. He has worked with athletes, business leaders, and world figures to help them maximize their potential. Robbins is known for his dynamic seminars and workshops, where he teaches people strategies for achieving personal and professional success. His focus on emotional mastery, peak performance, and financial independence has made him a global leader in the self-improvement industry. Robbins has built a multi-million dollar business empire around his personal development programs.
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. As the first African American president, Obama’s leadership marked a historic moment in American history. His administration focused on healthcare reform, economic recovery from the Great Recession, and environmental policies. He is best known for the Affordable Care Act, as well as his efforts to expand civil rights and restore diplomatic relations with Cuba. Since leaving office, Obama has continued to engage in public life through his foundation, focusing on leadership development, civic engagement, and global issues.
Christopher Hitchens (1949-2011) was a prolific British-American author, journalist, and literary critic known for his sharp wit and unapologetic criticism of religion and political figures. He penned numerous books, including the best-selling "God Is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything," which cemented his reputation as a leading public intellectual and outspoken atheist. Hitchens contributed regularly to prominent publications such as Vanity Fair, The Nation, and The Atlantic, showcasing his wide-ranging knowledge and incisive commentary. He was also lauded for his powerful oratory skills, engaging in countless debates and lectures worldwide. His memoir, "Hitch-22," offers an introspective look into his life, further solidifying his legacy as a formidable voice in contemporary literature and thought.
David Cancel is a prominent entrepreneur and author best known for his influential work in the tech and startup communities. As the CEO and co-founder of Drift, a leading conversational marketing platform, he has revolutionized how businesses engage with their customers online. Cancel has also authored insightful books such as "Hypergrowth," which offers valuable strategies for scaling startups rapidly. His contributions extend beyond literature as he frequently shares his expertise through speaking engagements and his popular podcast, "Seeking Wisdom." David Cancel's innovative ideas and practical advice continue to inspire and guide entrepreneurs worldwide.
Bill Rasmussen is best known as the founder of ESPN, the world’s first 24-hour sports television network, which revolutionized sports broadcasting and media consumption globally. Born on October 15, 1932, in Chicago, Illinois, Rasmussen's visionary approach to cable television transformed the sports industry and paved the way for modern sports journalism. His contributions to literature include his memoir, "Sports Junkies Rejoice! The Birth of ESPN," where he chronicles the challenges and triumphs of launching the network. Rasmussen's innovative spirit and entrepreneurial success have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Sports Broadcasting Hall of Fame. His legacy continues to influence the ways in which sports content is produced and consumed today.
Showing 8 of 25 related collections
“I love to run early in the morning, before the world gets going, before the noise of the day begins.”
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running
By Haruki Murakami
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Haruki Murakami is a renowned Japanese author celebrated for his unique blend of magical realism and profound exploration of the human experience. Born on January 12, 1949, in Kyoto, Japan, he began his literary career in the 1980s, quickly gaining international acclaim with works such as “Norwegian Wood” and “Kafka on the Shore.” His narratives often feature surreal elements, introspective characters, and themes of loneliness and existentialism. In addition to his fiction, Murakami is also a dedicated translator and passionate runner, often weaving elements of his personal experiences into his writing. With numerous awards to his name, including the Franz Kafka Prize, Murakami's influence continues to inspire readers and writers around the world.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
Unlock the secrets to conquering your next marathon or half-marathon with "The Runner’s World Big Book of Marathon and Half-Marathon Training." This comprehensive guide offers tailored training plans, expert tips, and motivational stories from seasoned runners to elevate your performance. Discover how nutrition, injury prevention, and mental strategies can transform your running journey into an exhilarating experience. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned athlete, you'll find the insights needed to enhance your stamina and speed. Ready to take the first step toward your personal best?
In 'I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings,' Maya Angelou unfolds her extraordinary journey from a childhood marked by trauma and racial segregation to the discovery of her own voice and resilience. Through vivid storytelling, she reveals the complexities of growing up as a Black girl in the American South, facing both the challenges of her identity and the healing power of literature. Her poetic reflections illuminate the struggles of finding freedom and self-acceptance amidst oppression. This memoir is not just a tale of survival, but a celebration of the human spirit's indomitable strength. Readers are invited to explore how art and experience intertwine to create a life of purpose and hope.
In 'Wanting' by Luke Burgis, the author explores the profound influence of desire on human behavior. Drawing from philosophical insights and real-world examples, Burgis reveals how our cravings shape our choices and relationships. He uncovers the hidden drivers behind our ambitions, suggesting that what we want often reflects the desires of others. This thought-provoking narrative challenges readers to examine the nature of their own wants and the societal pressures that mold them. Discover how understanding desire can lead to a more authentic and fulfilling life.
In 'Natural Born Heroes,' Christopher McDougall embarks on a captivating quest to uncover the ancient secrets of human endurance and heroism. He journeys to the rugged landscapes of Crete, exploring the extraordinary feats of the island's World War II resistance fighters. Along the way, McDougall reveals surprising connections between modern running, ancestral wisdom, and the resilience of the human spirit. With a blend of history, science, and adventure, this book challenges conventional notions of athleticism and reveals the true potential within us all. Join him as he redefines what it means to be a hero in a world that's forgotten how to run.
'A Moveable Feast' is a captivating memoir by Ernest Hemingway that transports readers to 1920s Paris, a city teeming with artists and literary giants. Through vivid anecdotes, Hemingway recounts his bohemian lifestyle, charming friendships, and the intoxicating essence of the Left Bank. Each page is laced with nostalgia, showcasing the joys and struggles of a burgeoning writer in one of the most vibrant cultural landscapes of the time. As he reflects on love, loss, and the pursuit of authenticity, Hemingway's prose invites readers to experience the magic and melancholy of his formative years. This enchanting feast of memories leaves you yearning to explore the streets of Paris alongside its iconic inhabitants.
In 'Levels of the Game,' John McPhee takes readers inside the intense world of college tennis, unraveling the gripping match between two rising stars, one from the Ivy League and the other from a public university. This vivid exploration not only captures the physicality of the game but also delves into the intricate psychological and social dynamics shaping the players' lives. McPhee's masterful prose evokes the fierce competition, personal struggles, and aspirations tethered to ambition and identity. As the match unfolds, the reader is drawn into a transformative experience that transcends mere sport. Discover how a single game can reflect the broader contours of class and privilege in America.
In 'Memoirs or Chronicle of The Fourth Crusade and The Conquest of Constantinople', Geoffrey de Villehardouin offers a gripping firsthand account of one of the most pivotal events in medieval history. Journey through the ambitions of the Crusaders as they venture beyond their holy mission into the heart of the Byzantine Empire. Witness the intrigue, battles, and betrayals that led to the dramatic fall of Constantinople. Villehardouin's vivid storytelling immerses readers in the chaos and fervor of the time. Uncover the complex motives behind the Crusade that changed the course of history and shaped the future of Europe.
Dive into 'The New Penguin Atlas of Ancient History' by Colin McEvedy, where maps come alive with the tales of civilizations. Explore the intricate web of ancient societies, from the rise of empires to the fall of dynasties, all illustrated in stunning, vivid detail. McEvedy's insightful commentary weaves a narrative that connects geographical shifts with historical events, sparking a deeper understanding of our past. Each map is a gateway to discovery, prompting readers to consider how geography shapes human experience. Are you ready to journey through time and uncover the mysteries of ancient worlds?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
