Man’s Search for Meaning is a brilliant book by Viktor Frankl in which he shares his horrific time at a Nazi concentration camp. He discusses the harsh environment, endless hardships, deaths, torture and never-ending struggles to survive a single day in the ruthless camp—a place where even hope can not survive for long. However, with his faith, Viktor Frankl survived hell but came back with stories which may haunt the living souls of modern men.
Viktor Frankl was captured by Nazis during World War II and was kept in Auschwitz for three years. There he endured the toughest times of his life as he saw his companions turned into ashes while the remaining were made to work til their bodies fell from starvation and fatigue. Even in such conditions, Frankl didn’t lose his composure or values and persuade to do the right thing as a psychiatrist.
Key Takeaways from Man’s Search for Meaning
In Man’s Search for Meaning, Viktor tries to highlight different values like love and hope as the source of human strength. Using these one can find meaning in the most disturbing places. On top of that, his inner strength to endure pain, while taking responsibility for his fellow prisoners was a key component for survival. Lastly, let’s take a brief look at the major takeaways of the book.
Meaning In Most Unexpected Places
Life is meaningless or not, it’s a centuries-old debate between people and different societies. According to Viktor Frankl, the question is very generalised as each individual has their own life experiences and according to those, one can find the truth. Thus, Frankl used his skills for the betterment of people in camps, he found meaning through his actions which is the first place were the product of life.
Your Soul Is In Your Keeping
The soul or one’s will is one of the strongest components of the human psyche. No matter the situation, one has a choice and no circumstances have the power to change it. People crumble under pressure, torture and hate, however, if they have their souls in keeping, no mountain is too high.
Freedom Moves Along With Responsibility
True freedom in both spiritual and material sense comes from taking responsibility for your actions. Using love and other values, one should look out for people around him. Similar to Viktor Frankl’s actions when he was helping people inside the camp. This is the big reason that he made out of that time and today, his stories inspire millions of people.
Final Thoughts on Man’s Search For Meaning
Man’s Search for Meaning is one of the greatest literary items that should be present on everyone’s bookshelf. It is a timeless classic and carries a profound message of responsibility, seeking meaning and love as an antidote to all the hatred. It’s one of a kind book and not enough praising words can be said about its magnificence.
Frequently Ask Questions (FAQs)
What is the main point of man’s search for meaning?
The main point of the book is that man can find meaning in the most appalling places.
Is A Man’s Search for Meaning a good book?
Man’s Search for Meaning has to be on the list of the top hundred books of all time. The book has a brilliant and true story of survival, faith, hope, existentialism and bravery of all the people who survived the concentration camps.
What is the man’s search for meaning?
Man’s Search for Meaning is not a book but an idea by the author which emphasises the fact that we have to look for our meanings in life. Thus, there is no general meaning for everyone to follow pursuit—seek your answers and you’ll find meaning in it.
How many pages are there in a man’s search for meaning?
The book is 180 pages depending on the edition. However, it will take around 3-4 hours for someone with average reading speed to complete the book.
