On Doing Nothing: Finding Inspiration in Idleness

(Hardback)

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Description

In an age of obsessive productivity and stress, this illustrated ode to idleness invites readers to take a deep breath and explore the art of slowing down. Beloved author and illustrator Roman Muradov shares how doing nothing is essential to leading a productive, enjoyable, and creative life. He weaves together the words and stories of artists, writers, philosophers, and eccentrics who have pursued inspiration by doing less. And through these examples, he suggests simple ways for the reader to cultivate idleness in their own lives. Peppered with playful illustrations, this handsome volume offers a fresh perspective on creativity and a thought-provoking read.

Reviews

"'There is lots to savour here, if you're the type of person who, like me, has a soft spot for Roland Barthes and faintly pretentious writing. Nice pictures too." -- The Spectator

Author Bio

Roman Muradov is an award-winning author and illustrator, originally from Russia, now living in San Francisco, where he is a professor at California College of the Arts. His work has appeared in numerous publications including The New Yorker, The New York Times, The Paris Review, Vogue, and Lucky Peach, and he is the recipient of the prestigious Art Directors Club Young Guns award and two medals from the Society of Illustrators. His previous books include the graphic novels (In a Sense) Lost & Found, Jacob Bladders and the State of the Art, The End of a Fence, and Aujourd'hui Demain Hier. He also designed the Penguin Classics Centennial Editions of James Joyce's Dublinersand A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man. He has a penchant for long aimless walks and an imaginary dog named Barchibald.