The Gay Science

by Friedrich Nietzsche
The Gay Science cover
Good Books rating 4.45
Philosophy
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £12.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 3852
  • Added: 2025-10-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-24
  • ISBN: 9780307434173
  • Publisher: Vintage
  • Published: 2010-08-18
  • Formats: 1
  • Reviews: 4

The Gay Science is a deeply personal work by Friedrich Nietzsche, where he first proclaims the death of God and introduces his doctrine of the eternal recurrence. This book contains some of Nietzsche's most sustained discussions on art, morality, knowledge, and truth, offering a glimpse into his intellectual conscience and the origin of logic. It also features many of his philosophical ideas and a collection of his own poetry, providing a unique insight into his thoughts and creative process. /n/n Written just before Thus Spoke Zarathustra and completed years later, The Gay Science showcases Nietzsche's evolving philosophy. Walter Kaufmann's commentary and translations bring Nietzsche's work to life, making it accessible and illuminating for readers. This edition includes quotations from previously untranslated letters, offering a humanizing perspective on the philosopher.

Reviews
Amazon · 2025-10-20
engaging 4.20

The reviewer expresses a strong admiration for Nietzsche's writings and finds this book particularly enjoyable. They highlight the book's engaging content and Nietzsche's unique perspective on various philosophical themes.

The reviewer on Amazon is a self-proclaimed fan of Nietzsche's writings and thoroughly enjoyed The Gay Science. They appreciate Nietzsche's unique perspective on philosophical themes such as art, morality, and truth. The book is described as engaging and thought-provoking, making it a enjoyable read for those familiar with Nietzsche's work. The reviewer's admiration for Nietzsche's style and content is evident throughout their comments.

Quick quotes

    I must admit that I am very much a fan of Nietzsche's writings.

    With that said, I very much enjoyed this book.

    Nietzsche's unique perspective on philosophical themes is both engaging and thought-provoking.

NDPR · 2025-10-20
thought-provoking 4.50

The review highlights Nietzsche's profound exploration of art, morality, and truth, praising the book's depth and philosophical richness. It also notes the significance of the appendix of songs in enhancing the overall work.

The reviewer from NDPR delves into Nietzsche's intricate discussions on art, morality, and truth, emphasizing the book's philosophical depth. They appreciate the way Nietzsche challenges conventional wisdom and encourages readers to think critically. The appendix of songs is particularly noted for adding a unique dimension to the text, making it a compelling read for those interested in philosophy. The reviewer finds the book thought-provoking and well-structured, making it a valuable addition to Nietzsche's body of work.

Quick quotes

    The Gay Science is a profound exploration of art, morality, and truth.

    Nietzsche's challenging of conventional wisdom is both refreshing and thought-provoking.

    The appendix of songs adds a unique and enriching dimension to the text.

The Storygraph · aristotle910 · 2023-01-01
brilliant 4.50

This book is a fantastic read that showcases Nietzsche's brilliance. It is challenging to fully appreciate Nietzsche's work without being misunderstood.

The reviewer found this book to be a fantastic read, highlighting Nietzsche's brilliance. They mention that it's rather difficult to show appreciation for Nietzsche without being mistaken for something else. The book is described as profound and thought-provoking, with the reviewer expressing a deep admiration for Nietzsche's insights. They also note that the book is quite personal, which adds to its unique appeal.

Quick quotes

    What a fantastic read. There are no words to sum up Nietzsche's brilliance.

    It's rather difficult to show appreciation for Nietzsche, without being mistaken for something else.

    This book is quite personal, which adds to its unique appeal.

Amazon · 2023-01-01
excellent 4.60

This book is an excellent entry into Nietzsche's writing. The reviewer plans to read more of his works next.

The reviewer found this book to be an excellent entry into Nietzsche's writing. They mentioned that it has inspired them to explore more of Nietzsche's works, such as 'Thus Spoke Zarathustra' or 'Beyond Good and Evil'. The book is praised for its depth and the way it delves into complex topics like art, morality, and truth. The reviewer also appreciates the personal touch that Nietzsche brings to his writing, making it a unique and engaging read.

Quick quotes

    I've found this to be an excellent entry into Nietzsche's writing.

    I'll probably go with either Thus Spoke Zarathustra or Beyond Good and Evil next, depending on my mood.

    It's a great introduction to Nietzsche's thoughts and ideas.

Appears in Lists