A Book for Everyone and No One (Penguin Classics)

I bought this for a 20th C. philosophy in the wake of Nietzche class and found it an awkward read. Much declamation and lots of "THEE" and "THOU"'s. I found the Hollingdale 1961 so much more readable and easy to understand. I plan to reread the work in the Hollingdale translation since I don't think this translation made the work very enjoyable.

Zarathustra is a fascinating piece of art, best read as poetry rather than philsophy. I agree with Ayn Rand's comment on Nietzsche in her preface to her great novel "The Fountainhead" : "as a poet, he projects at times (not consistently)a magnificent feeling for man's greatness, expressed in emotional, not intellectual terms."
Nietzsche, in Zarathustra, looked at Man's acceptance of Christianity, Statism, Collectivism, and Self-sacrifice, gave Man a slap, and laughed at him. Then he begged Man to overcome his faults and reach his highest potential.

There seem to be plenty of reviews debating the philosophical principles of Nietszche and the statements he makes, so, for the non-philosophy students present (i.e. ME) I'll rate it for the layman.
`TSZ' is very longwinded, and as the introduction states, filled with `excess', but that does not make it a bad book. Every sentence is imbued with its own iconic poetry, and, philosophy aside, the metaphors and similes alone make this book worth reading. It is clear that Nietszche, or perhaps his translator, had a mind better suited to creative expression than most philosophers, or indeed today's authors, and it is in this that lies the book's real strength. Through its use of imagery it not only makes an interesting, inspirational, conjectural read (apart from a few really boring parts that seemed written only to slow down the pace), it makes its message easy to understand and backs it up with surrealistic examples. Whereas sometimes in philosophy, the use of allegory can confuse the issue (More's `Utopia' - mockery of idealism, framework for perfect society, or rambling tale?), in `Zarathustra' the reader, no matter whether they are new to the field or not, cannot fail to discern the message that Man is not a goal but a bridge, a rope over an abyss. As philosophy, and as literature, it succeeds in conveying its point, setting up a platform for discussion or merely to digest individually. Admittedly, some refuse to read Nietszche because of his view of women (`shallow waters'), and because of how his ideas for the Superman allegedly inspired Hitler's Aryan vision for the world, but such people deprive themselves of an interesting viewpoint that defines the meaning of life in human rather than spiritual terms.
One potential problem for the newcomer to philosophy is the storyline. For a man remembered for the statement `God is dead', Nietszche obviously drew inspiration from the Bible, for Zarathustra is strongly reminiscent of Jesus, recruiting disciples and disappearing into the wilderness with a frequency that Bigfoot would be proud of. The problem with an allegorical tale is the reader's propensity for bringing western narrative expectations to it - `Zarathustra' is a text-book, not a story, but sometimes you do find yourself waiting for the climax, the big show-down, the cinematic denouement. So long as you remember that it is philosophy, not a novel, and so long as you appreciate each segment as an expressive point and not part of a conventional plot, there should be no troubles. I'll leave you with a sample of Nietzsche's verbal wizardry:
`It is the stillest words which bring the storm. Thoughts that come on doves' feet guide the world.'

In George Orwell's essay "Lear, Tolstoy, and the Fool" Tolstoy accounts for the world's love of Shakespeare as,

"a sort of mass hypnosis, or `epidemic suggestion'. The whole civilized world has somehow been deluded into thinking Shakespeare a good writer, and even the plainest demonstration to the contrary makes no impression, because one is not dealing with a reasoned opinion but with something akin to religious faith."

I can only say the same for Nietzsche, and especially this book. It is not even good, nor even so bad as to be interesting. The only time I enjoyed reading it is briefly, while very high. You could learn more about the meaning of life from 3 episodes of South Park than is contained in the whole of this book.

I consulted commentaries often to be sure I was not missing some deep kernel of truth. I checked the notes in the back, which rarely told me anything I didn't know, (generally what Biblical allusion N. was making,) and it was all a bunch of boring rubbish disguised in a boringly rubbish parable. I can only conclude that this book, which cost me two years to finish, perfectly fit Tolstoy's opinion of Shakespeare:`an irresistible repulsion and tedium'.

This can be one of the books to have on your night table. You will enjoy reading the book, while you learn from it. There are some parts of the book that you will probably not agree with, but still a joyful read.

This book ought to be read because of the linguistic mastery and surreal, alien style alone. If however, you are of the philosophical persuasion, this book will entertain you for many hours. Nietzsche wrote a philosophy contrary to every norm with thought provoking discourses which mimic the style of Christ. Indeed, Zarathustra (the main character) seems to preach and lead a life antithetical to that of Jesus Christ while his style is still reminiscent of Christ's parables and commandments. This book is unlike anything you have ever read before.

True, it was only $0.99, but it's principle at work here. I now know the value of previewing the book before buying. Don't assume the book is formatted correctly for the Kindle because it's in the Kindle book store. I don't know about the other versions of the book offered, but this specific one (Thus Spake Zarathustra - A Book For All And None) was entirely left-aligned (incorrectly, so that you'd have one whole line of text always followed by a half line, every two lines looked like the end of a paragraph) and had an unlinked TOC, making it a chore to simply get through the intro.

Two'd because the content is classic, but the delivery is broken.

This book does not have any easy answers. It is not the purpose of the book. The purpose of the book is to make the reader think for themselves. I find the book a comforting read - it gives hope and meaning to everyone that is dissatisfied with the answers given by organized religion, political parties, or just the usual howling mobs of sheep that think that just because they are members of a group they are wolves.

Nietzsche probably understood suffering and loss better than most, but he also understood hope better than most. True spiritual strength does not come from religious dogma or membership of a group. It comes from within, we all have it. For Nietzsche the only eternal truth is that we should always work for our betterment. We need no God or Leader to tell us what to do. In the end Nietzsche wants us to reject even him - he cannot tell us what we should do!

It can be said that horrible crimes have been committed in Nietzsche's name, but can we ignore that even more horrible crimes have been committed in God's or Allah's name? Or in the guise of "the common good" so favoured by our politicians?

Neitzsche's writings helped inspire and were used/ misused by the greatest force for Evil the twentieth century knew. This is not a minor charge that can be dismissed by pointing out how the boorish Nazis misunderstood the complex philosopher. There is in Neitzsche an elitist arrogance, and a prophetic superiority, a tone of contempt for the ' masses' and a suggestion that truly it is only for the ' few ' that real life and thought are possible.

True, this is one strand and it does not do justice to a great thinker's complex paradoxical and often remarkably insightful thought. But the evil that men do lives after them, and in the file of Neitzsche must too be registered the ' evil done' by those who took his ideas and misused them.

That said what is there really to give heart and hope to in 'Thus Spake Zarathustra?" Do we want to say Neitzsche is a prophet because like Ray Kurzweill he sees Mankind as a bridge between the ' ape' and the ' super-computer'? Do we want to linger on his cultural definition of Western civilization as being godless and point to the church- empty Europe today as sign of his sociological acuity? Do we wish to look at the Cosmos and say that his 'Eternal Recurrence' shows some kind of possible connection with our sense of ' alternative universes' or with the Indian philosophical understanding of time as vastly beyond our conventional Western frameworks? Do we want to see profundity in the poetical paradoxical or perhaps muddled meaningless utterances of the pseudo - prophetic voice?

My sense is that in the deep bottom line of things Neitzsche has not given Humanity ideas, dreams, understandings that can truly help us realize our G-d given goal of sanctifying the universe as a whole, of making a tikkun olam in which we improve the lives and the quality of well- being of individual human beings. What Neitzsche has done I think, is to give the human mind another treasure of thought and poetic brilliance. In this sense I see his gift if to use Kierkegaard's terminology far more in the aesthetic realm than in the moral. In the moral realm I do not have much sympathy for his critique of Christianity, of slave - morality .And this because I believe human kindness and goodness are at the heart of what we are as human beings. And that it is not through contempt of others but rather through helping of them that we most live. For me then the man on the mountain can never be Zarathustra. For me the only mountain is Sinai where the most humble of men, Moses receives the Divine Revelation and then goes forth the second time to help Mankind walk in a way which is kinder.

This book is an amazing read for anyone interested in Nietzsche, free thought, or brilliant writing style. This book is a must for anyone who claims to be a philosopher. Never has a more meaningful and beautiful book been written. I would suggest reading some of Nietzsche's other works first, namely The Geneology of Morality, Human, All-Too Human, and Beyond Good and Evil, because otherwise one could misinterpret Zarathustra like so many others have.

Clearly one of the most important books of mankind. Nietzsche has a tremendous influence on the thoughts of the 20th and 21st century, and in "Zarathustra", his ideas are put in an incredibly powerful poetic/rhethoric form that will influence you dramatically, no matter if you then like or dislike the book.

Is is extremely rare that there is such a density of ideas and messages, hence this book must be read several times and together with other works by Nietzsche, preferably "twilight of the idols", "beyond good and evil" and/or "the dawn".

Nietzsche wanted to create the bible for the individualistic, atheistic, independent man. He succeeded, and Zarathustra does not ask for faith and fellowship but critcal reflection, courage and independence.

In this book, the foundation of modern existentialism is laid and the philosophically educated reader will find the origins of an enormous amount of philosophical concepts of the 20th century.

I am not educated in philosophy, so I read this book slowly with the help of Sparknotes and ended up really enjoying the book, not only for its philosophy (not all of which I found agreeable, however, tremendously interesting) but also for its creativity, humor and its literary energy and complexity. It is always a treat to read writings of such a brilliant thinker of our time.

This is an amazing, but also sometimes amazingly difficult to access, work. It is unfortunate that Kauffman's is the most widely used translation, because his translation is clunky and ponderous. T. Wayne's translation, in contrast, is very lyrical and frequently simply makes more sense. In some places it does appear that Mr. Wayne tries too hard to distinguish his translation from that of Kauffman, meaning his difference in word choice does not improve the work but rather makes it worse. However, to be fair, that is rare and the vast majority of the differences mark a substantial improvement. The most disappointing thing about this edition is that the publishers/editors (Algora) did a pretty sloppy job, so there are a number stupid typographical errors that will hopefully be corrected if Algora ever re-publishes it.

T.S.Z. is easily one of Nietzsche's best books, and probably one of THE best books ever written, which can easily be gleaned from Kaufmann's and Hollingdale's translations, but this translation doesn't do the book any justice at all. It can be utterly unreadable at times, mostly unreadable the rest of the time. Obviously Common was trying to use the language of the King James Bible; language which was considered out-dated and archaic even when that book came out. But the language admittedly does have a certain force and power to it. Ludovici's afterward at the end can be a good read, as it does show certain ideas, such as the chapter "Young and Old Women", in a new light, and offers interesting interpretations. But besides that, you'd do best simply getting a different version.
Let me just put it this way: if I had paid more than two dollars for this book, I would have felt ripped off.

Be careful not to read this too directly. Doing so can make you misunderstand too much. This book operates by association, or more specifically, the associative, and this is the reason it is so powerful. It is reflexive in so far as this operation becomes its subject. If one bears in mind Nietzsche's influential training as a philologist and the burgeoning field of linguistics in the 19thc, as well as an aesthetics of 'performativity' tied to the 'force' of artistic subjectivity in amongst some of those of Nietzsche's circle, such as Richard Wagner, then the allegory he employs can be argued as a kind of acute armature for exploring the obliquity of thought tied to symbols, statements, metaphores, etc, but it is that act of exploration that constitutes the work, not the facts of allegory. This is his persuasiveness, and it comes from Nietszche's study of rhetoric, classics, etc. It is a book about forces, not power, discipline, history, or even subjectivity. The forces or valency of allegory and concept - an immanence within thought - the book does nothing else. The catchy phrases that make it so memorable serve this function. This is not his best work though, as much as it is a step above the 'Birth of Tragedy' which rightly got him ridiculed. A lot of fun and great for broody teenagers.

I love this book. I didn't understand it the first time I tried to read it, so I put it down. I luckily came across the Teaching Company tapes on Nietzsche's philosophy and Panza's Existentialism for Dummies so I could finally get at what Nietzsche was talking about. It's absolutely amazing and lovely. I hope you get the chance to read it too with some understanding. You'll be the better for it.

In this philosophical novel the focal character is named Zarathustra, and the story is about his travels and pedagogy. One of Nietzsche's greatest contributions to philosophy is the idea of the Übermensch (aka the overman or superman), which was first introduced in this novel.

At one point in the book Zarathustra declares that, "The overman is the meaning of the earth. Let your will say: the overman shall be the meaning of the earth!" Given the rise of transhumanism, it should be obvious that this book is as relevant as ever. It makes you wonder what humans will evolve into.

This book is difficult to read for a variety of reasons (at the times the writing ironically mimics that of the New Testament), but it's definitely a book that anyone interested in philosophy should read.

Éste libro de Nietzsche considerado como una obra maestra de la literatura contemporánea, no solo es una gran obra para aquel que desea leerla con propósitos académicos, sino para todos lo que mas allá de querer encontrar respuestas sobre la existencia, están buscando preguntas, cuestionarse, abrir los ojos ante todo lo anteriormente creído. Por lo tanto el texto es interpretado de la manera en que cada uno de nosotros lo tomemos, adaptándolo así a nuestro código de valores, creencias y madurez crítica.
En el libro se manejan diferentes ideas, una de ellas es la importancia de la voluntad. La voluntad de existir, de creer, de vencer el dolor, de obtener una fortaleza interior que nos permita no ser parte del "rebaño" y ubicarnos en la constante búsqueda de la verdad, la espiritualidad, nuestra propia libertad y la "perfección". Sostiene el concepto de que todo hombre tiene como mayor aspiración ser cada vez mejor. Se maneja la resignación y el conformismo como lo contrario a lo que enseña Zaratustra. Sin embargo, pienso yo, que en vez de resignarnos o al contrario entregarnos a ser demasiado humanos adorando la perfección, podríamos tratar de mejorar y perfeccionar nuestra vida en este mundo.
Se maneja una ironía singular, ya que Zaratustra podría ser comparado con Cristo ya que ambos son visto como personas no comunes, desconocidas, constantemente cuestionados, pero a al mismo tiempo, las ideas expuestas por Zaratustra resultan ser todo un reto para la ideología cristiana. Por ejemplo, la muestra del utópico superhombre del que se habla, marca una inferioridad dentro de la raza humana, cosa que en la religión cuya base es la igualdad entre los hombres, representa una contrariedad severa a sus postulados.
El superhombre es el estado mas alto al que puede llegar una persona, se expone como aquel que siendo dueño de sus actos y pensamiento es capaz de gobernarse a sí mismo sin necesidad de pertenecer al tan mencionado "rebaño o manada" siendo manipulado y guiado. Éste superhombre es seguro, independiente y muy individualista, éste siente con intensidad, pero sus pasiones están frenadas y reprimidas por el poder de su propio razonamiento.
La obra está llena de contrastes. De alguna manera el texto puede ser visto como pesimista mientras que por el otro lado puede ser considerado bello y lleno de esperanza. Suena algo irónico pero el libro nos hace reflexionar que al destruir el mundo del idealismo mal entendido reflejado en el egocentrismo y el egoísmo, y los valores falsos, podríamos encontrar la verdadera esencia que nos hace ser lo que somos y así poder reconstruir lo aprendido en bases firmes y no falsas o temporales.
Existen los constantes cuestionamientos existenciales, basados en la preguntas generales de ¿Qué es un hombre?, ¿Cuál es nuestro potencial?, ¿Qué es el verdadero ser?, preguntas cuya respuesta es incierta ya que no hay una correcta si no varios puntos de vista que muchas veces difieren entre uno y otro. El texto no busca la falta de disciplina y mucho menos guiarnos hacia el libertinaje como en algún tiempo se penso, al contrario, se muestra como una reacción en contra del conformismo de ideas y acciones que prevalece hoy en día en nuestra sociedad y que de hecho es bastante común.
Otro de los temas tratados es el regreso eterno que plantea una proyección cíclica de los eventos, es decir la repetición de éstos en lapsos largos de tiempo. Habla sobre la importancia de vivir el presente sin encerrarnos en el pasado ni proyectarnos al futuro. Todas éstas ideas pueden sonar un tanto extrañas mas a una mentalidad tradicionalista y occidentalizada como la nuestra, donde generalmente se nos enseña a recurrir al pasado para entender o corregir nuestro presente y prever el futuro. Ideas como ésta nos hace comprender porque la censura al autor de ésta obra que permaneció en el anonimato por mucho tiempo acatando las reglas morales y religiosas que prevalecían no hace mucho tiempo.

Before you read this book, realize this: Thus Spoke Zarathustra is considered by Nietzche to be his ultimate gift to us. To truly understand it you must understand the evolution of his thoughts. Thus Spoke is a culmination of his life, and to realize what Nietzche means, beyond the surface and any preconceived notions you might have, you have to know what built up to this book. I suggest reading: "Nietzche: Philosopher, Psychologist, AntiChrist" to gain perspective on what formed this amazing thinker. The thoughts may seem harsh when they stand alone, but as you begin to see the picture that Nietzche paints, you will find it hard to deny the reality of his thoughts and their implications on your view of the world. In one way he can be seen as a pessimistic "nihilist"; at the same time his thoughts are beautiful, full of hope. Ironic, isn't it? We destroy the world of idols and false values so that we may rebuild it, so that we may overcome it.

This is cleary a work of passion from a philosopher who said "yes" to life. What a wealth of ideas Nietzsche presents, from a man with an excessively intense mind. Philosophical, poetic, psychological, and sociological all juxposized into a amazing free flowing work of fiction from a philosopher and self proclaimed psychologist. Nietzsche had a torn yet brilliant mind, due to his excessive solitude and health problems.

I have read this book three times and I never read a book more then once. One must read this book several times because all the ideas and insights crammed into such a short book. TSZ is Nietzsche at his best.

Parkes writes an exceptional translation. His insight into Nietzsche's subtleties are on point. Such detail is paramount in the translation of any philosophical text, especially when exploring paradox.

There are some things here. I like this book and found it interesting. This book says alot about solitude and many other things. This book has the rare ability to console and can even act as a friend when there is no friend. This book may allude to making solitude tolerable.

The only other western philosophical text as importnat as this book is Plato's "Republic." We have once again arrived at the cross-roads of Heraclitus v/s Paramendides. I wouldn't recommended jumping into it without a good knowledge of the Western philosophical traditon and religious traditions. (Zarathutra himself calls learning ALL this backround information "the spirit of the camel" or first taking on the burden of knowledge before going about anything else. To not take on this "burden of knowledge" is the main flaw of most Nietzsche critics and mis-understanders.) Also, Nietzsche was an anti-systemic philosopher so it demands to be viewed/critiqued in a different way than traditional philosophy. To begin to grasp Nietzsche's "Zarathustra" I would to recommend first reading his earlier works starting with a couple of short essays. The first one is "Truth and Lie in a Non-Moral Sense" which is about human language, logic and the all-too-human need for these "lies." The other essay is "Homer's Contest" which reveals his legacy as starting from the early Greek tradition.
Some important things to know about this book to avoid the common misinterpretation that Nietzsche is just a Atheist/Nihilist with a superiority complex:
-pay very close attention to his critque of mind/body dualsism and what he proposes otherwise.
-The "Overman" is a conception that only looks toward the future. Later in the book Zarathustra supercedes the "Overman" idea with the cyclical concept of "Eternal Recourence." Even Zarathustra himself has a hard time confronting this view of life and existence. Also, don't make the mistake that eternal reccourence is just a "telos," it is not. Zarathutra speaks in parables not absolutes.
-One of Nietzsche's most favorite authors was Emerson (who also used the name "Zarathutra" in his some of his writings) and their ideas/project have mainy similarities.
-The idea of the world/life not being worthy without a metaphysical world behind it is exactaly what Nietzsche was aimed at overcoming.
-Don't over-simplify will-to-Power as will-to-Overpower.
-Think hard about this being a "book for all and none," think very hard.
-Plato's "Sun" is replaced with "sun" of the Self. This "sun" is the "dancing star." For some odd reason, I see few people mention the signifcance of Self-love in "Zarathustra." This is KEY in understanding where Nietzsche is going/taking us.
-Nietzsche isn't worldly political like the Republic, instead he symbolically speaks of the battle of modern human soul in political terms.
As far as translations go, I prefer Kaufmann over Holingdale because he pays more attetntion to the nuances of Nitezsche's word play. But I would recommend reading more than one translation and getting the best out of all of them.
I also would recommend getting some familiarity with the symbols of alchemy and other mystery traditions. Just as Nietzsche turns Plato's "Theory of the Line" and "Allegory of the Cave" upside-down, he also turns these "mystery" symbols inside-out. No longer is it a connection with anything "beyond" the world that makes it valuable. Instead,It becomes conections with body and the world. "The mind is a herald of the body." For example, consider the "ouroboros" as a symbol of "Eternal Recurrence." In some sense, Zarathutra was very much a prophet of holism as opposed to strict dualism. Carl Jung's 1,500+ page incomplete study of "Zarathura" is a testement to the richness of Zarathustra's symbolism.

If you can catch a deep enough glance, this book will change your life. And if you keep re-reading it, it will keep on changing your life.

Nietzsche's "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" is often referred to as one of the most influential works of our century, which he wrote in the latter part of the nineteenth century. I've read numerous critiques, analysis, and interpretations from scholars on "Thus Spoke..." Understanding Friedrich, his life, and his constant pains, give some insight into what may have underlined his beliefs. I think to best understand "Thus Spoke..." a person should read it at least twice. I believe a reader can take many of the themes and metaphors and apply them to his or her belief system, or personal philosophy. We all perceive things in different ways, and we can take what we want out of this work. Individuality, and the constant question and resistance to organized institutions is what I like to take from "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" as Zarathustra walks along the mountains, trails, hills, and towns, in his quest to think for himself and tell others of his thoughts. The style is direct and the many exclamation points give Nietzsche's points a "shout!" Nietzsche notes the importance of individuality and the dangers of becoming one of the lemming-like sheep that follow the herd, whether it be nationalism, religious zealotry, or the unquestioning acceptance of basic societal norms. Nietzsche rakes Christianity and organized religion over the coals, with knockout punch after knockout punch. Another theme I take from "Thus Spoke..." is that one person's vice is another's virtue, and we should focus on ourselves and what we believe in, and not spend time attempting to have others accept our ways, and certainly now want them to accept us. We should simply do our "own-thing." One person's goals and values can be, and often are, abhorrent to another person.
There is certainly much more to his works, and any person can go deeper than myself, because I read non-fiction primarily. If a person reads this when they are in their late teens or early twenties, perhaps it can help them reinforce who they are. Anyone can benefit from "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" if they allow themselves the opportunity.

Nietzsche was one of the most revolutionary and subversive thinkers in Western philosophy, and "Thus Spoke Zarathustra" remains his most famous and influential work as well as being his most personal work; it is the history of his most individual experiences, of his friendships, ideals, raptures, bitterest disappointments and sorrows. Above it all, is the image of his greatest hopes and most ambitious aims. With blazing intensity and poetic brilliance, Nietzsche argues that the meaning of existence is not to be found in religiosity or meek submission, but in our all-powerful life force: passionate, chaotic, and unrestrained. Genius.

Hollingdale's translation of the book reveals a remarkable world of awe. The satirical, witty writing is only part of the many reasons why I enjoyed this book. It can be read for the literature, or for the deeper meaning but in any way it can be enjoyed by young and old. It has been awhile but every time I return to this book I seem to learn something new. Definitely an interesting way to look at life and how to live it.

"God is dead." I think people really have loved God so much that they have forgotten to love their neighbor. I am not an anti-Christ, nihilist, or what not. I'm still confused after reading this book and I refuse to tag myself with any labels. This book really shattered my perceptions about humanity.

What a book this is! The announcement, the challenge to humanity, 'I give you, the superman!' God is dead. Many of Nietzsches idea's are so modern, or the foundation of modern life (think of the messiah complexes and beyond good or evil personas of rock stars like Marilyn Manson), it is so hard to believe he wrote this in the Victorian age (not hard then to see why he went insane). The most obvious clue to the era it was written is the longwindness, and difficulty of reading the text through. It is perhaps best to approach it in shortbursts, not only for the ideas but to appreciate the poetry of the text - what a way to present philosophy! So in keeping with the revolutionary nature of the work.

Thus spake Zarathustra is an ideal book to start reading Nietzsche first hand. If approaching Nietzsche for the first time, or if seeking a more general overview of his thought, I recommend the easy reading, Introducing Nietzsche, Third Edition (Introducing...),' by Laurence Gane. Otherwise enjoy, and go from here to read 'Beyond Good or Evil.'

Coupled with the Gay Science, Zarathustra reveals that there is more to Nietzsche than anti-liberal and anti-Christian no-saying. Through the thoughts and travails of Zarathustra, Nietzsche offers a positive political vision based on a small spiritual aristocracy absorbed in creative self-redefinition. Nietzsche's seminal work also provides insight into his views on his own status vis-a-vis "the new philosophers" he describes: he sees himself as the bridge to the overman, but only a bridge because of his inability to totally escape Christian-dominated metaphysical constructs. A stinging rebuke to all those who claim that Nietzche lacks a constructive politics.

I would like to advise new readers of Nietzsche to not read Zaruthustra until you have read a number of his other works. The book is cryptic, metaphoric, and employs heavy symbolism that will be easily misinterpreted by those who have not invested in Nietzsche's thinking.
Better to begin with Genealogy of Morals, or even Beyond Good and Evil (which recounts Zarathustra, but is more accessible), or Kaufmann's "Philosopher, Psychologist, Anti-Christ," or begin from the beginning with Birth of Tragedy and follow the chronology of his writings. A quick introduction to the style and nature of Nietzsche can be had through his Untimely Meditations, or the Gay Science.

I can't recommend this edition enough ! You will thoroughly enjoy this great work ! From cover to cover you will be up reading till its finished finally putting it back on the shelf is like leaving an old friend. All of his works have been amazing !

I found this book too ambiguous with all its poetic symbolism. The main question when reading this text is What is he really trying to say? It is ambiguous poetry. I would rather read his other works like The Anti-Christ and Twilight of the idols, which is another Penguin classic book.

Using the New Testament device of the parable, (in part to satirize it) Nietzsche created a prophet with which to deliver his message to the world with the force of characterization. Though he would outline his ideas more clearly later, he never again came so close to poetry and it remained the favorite of all his books.

I find Nietzsche's character extremely intersting and admit that his influence on philosophers and culture of this century is hardly negligible. However, I find his works, particularly Zarathustra, lacking in 'philosophy' and more as evidence of a man who led a very sad life.
There are certainly elements from the work deserving to be preserved, if not simply for their historical significance. Among other things, the almost Kantian criticism of belief in the supernatural in Part One still bears relevence.
A chief complaint, however, is that the exact character of the Superman is vaguely defined. He is a man who must assign his own meaning to life and define his whole existence by his own 'virtue', and thus grow beyond good and evil. However, how is one to choose his own virtue, and what is to happen when virtues conflict? Zarathustra speaks of going to war for one's virtue, but what exactly are we to interpret from this?
More than anything, though, I find this book lacking in style. It is very hard to comprehend because of the tedious metaphors, allegories and symbolisms. Every point is also expounded in excess. Once I finally dragged myself through this text, though, I found myself disappointed at what was to be found in the writings of this 'great philosopher'.

One of the more interesting things about Nietzche is that, as a philosopher, his ideas were always changing - yet popular culture remembers him chiefly as a nihilist. It is in Thus Spoke Zarathustra that he proposes an answer to questions of meaninglessness and devaluation; The Superman. He also touches on eternal recurrence, but only briefly, and only as a means to further justify the Superman. I liked the loose-narrative format of the book - much easier to digest than a pure dissertation, and Nietzsche seems an apt writer of prose. The book itself is a bit on the lengthy side, and feels lengthier still do to excessive reiteration - Nietzche often repeats the same ideas, or explores them multiple times, in different ways. although the work is imbued with eloquence and poetry throughout, it appears that much has been lost in translation. I read the Penguin Classics edition, translated by R.J. Hollingdale, and although the author/translator has written about fifty or so notes on the translation, clever puns and word-plays remain untranslatable - the nuances in language make reading a German copy desirable...if you speak German.
This is definitely not a one-or two sitting book, and warrants a thorough read and proper digestion. Many of the passages require that you read and re-read them to fully comprehend what Zarathustra is saying - much is clear but much is spoken in parable and metaphor. This is all precisely what the author intended...
I can recommend this book over Beyond Good and Evil, especially as an introduction to Nietzche, as Beyond Good and Evil is probably too self-referencing for the casual reader, but if you can read both, they are good companion-pieces. If you have the time to commit to it, Nietzche's masterpiece is a great read and a call to arms for those willing to command their ultimate will and become Supermen.

- Nietzche at his most optimistic -

In a world of cheap thrills and fast money, Thus Spoke Zarathustra offers an eciting journey into a path very often left dark. It is a book for unbelievers, for synics, for lovers of culuture and art. It is not a book for scholars who would simply like to master one more book to add to their arsenal and then to be able to bring it up in coversation to impress people. Zarathustra written in beautiful prose, means everything and absolutly nothing all in one. It challenges all values and offers ideas for one to discover oneself. Never telling one how to discover oneself, but simply that one must leave behind many things to rise out of the depths that are ones emotions, Nietzsche gives anyone looking to enjoy a good book what they want.

This book explains in details unmatched by literature of this era about spiritual metamorphosis. It's a great book to read and to use as a reference for whatever ideas you formulate. Friedrich remains a great author in this Thus Spoke Zarathustra.

This is a new gospell, as Nietzsche himself described it. Truth is only a few can read the book, but reading it again is always a possibility and each time it will be different. Nietzsche is in fac one of the greatest philosophers, the price of this book is an insult for its real value, well worth it.

If only he were right!

This work is deep and profound and well known as a seminal philosophical treatise from one of humanity's deepest and most profound thinkers.

A challenging read for sure but filled with plenty of brain food for those willing to take the magical ride.

I don't like Nietzsche. His theories are inhumane, and his insights psychotic. But anyone who reads the man's work knows that even after translation (by the prestigious RJ Hollingdale), Nietzsche's ability to write beautiful prose is an indisputable fact. One must often wonder where his ideas would be today if he had been a mediocre story teller?

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is, in my humble opinion, the place where anyone who wants to read Nietzsche should start. The ideas are deliniated clearly and the fashion in which they are strew is fully comprehendable. Or, if you prefer, try Beyond Good and Evil.

RSM

The words and thoughts of the Zarathustra are given in a poetic prose form throughout the four parts of the book. In the first part the reader gets used to the language structure, the different and astounding statements from the mouth of the Zarathustra. This can be hard and dissuasive for general readers. But for the ones who are REALLY interested in Philosophy the urge to go on for the rest of the book is irresistable. As you get closer to the indefinite end, you examine your view of life. To understand the Superman, virtue, mercy, the spirit of gravity and some other concepts, you must try to read between the lines.

I got interested in Nihilism because it is often confused with the Buddhist notion of "Emptiness". I was expecting something deep and profound. Instead, I find that Freddie is just another narcissistic, teenage angst machine. The stuff is typical "dark poetry" written by pre-pubescent emo boys. Don't waste your time on this garbage.

Words cannot express the respect I have for this book, nor the zeal with which I would advise one to read it. Granted, it is difficult, and in spots so esoteric as to defy any kind of direct interpretation, but in many others it simply shimmers with beauty. Personal favorites are "The Tree on the Mountainside," "On the Way of the Creator," and especially "The Tomb Song." Also, check out Strauss's musical work of the same name (Also Sprach Zarathustra), from which we get the theme to the movie 2001.

I got this version and the german version together at the same time. While reading the "english" version I came across absolute nonsense. Several times I had to look back on the german text to figure out what was going on. This is one of the worst translations I have seen. Several parts are incomprehensible or completely miss the point of the original text. Go out and buy a better version. This work is too important to be wasted on poor english.

"According to Nietzsche, God created everything but then died sometime in the past out of pity for humanity's imperfections."

Whoever wrote this has clearly not even come close to understanding not only this book but Nietzsche as a whole. Just because it says "God is dead" doesn't mean that when he was "Alive" he was an actual magical being that "Created everything".

There are many good reviews already on here so all I'd like to say is beware of any reviewers, like the one stated above, who openly state that they had difficulty understanding the text. I'm not saying it's an easy read, just that if you put the work in (Read and re-read if necessary) you will get the most out of this book. Plenty of people have trouble understanding many great works, that isn't a sign of anything lacking in the text itself.

Nietzsche's tale of the prophet Zarathustra and his teachings is a persuasive story. Nietzsche does a remarkable job of presenting many compelling ideas through the words of his prophet Zarathustra: the problem is that atheism is not a base on which any completly rational base can be built. For instance, Razi Zacharias's book, Can Man Live Without God? presents a powerful counter-arguement to Nietzsche's ideas, while it is not centered on Nietzsche so much as Nietzsche's basic philosophy of atheism.

When he was fifteen years old, Zarathustra left high-school and descended from the world of men. Walking among the trees of the forest, he met with a saintly wise man, who had left his holy cot to seek boring knowledge about trivial things: in order, perhaps, to obtain a degree. When the wise one Zarathustra saw this old hermit, he laughed to himself with contempt and pity. Then he cried out in a loud voice: "Hath this poor fool not heard? School is dead!"

Thus spake Zarathustra.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is a difficult book to read, particularly if you are asleep. But I wasn't asleep, I was only pretending to be asleep! You know, to take advantage of those who claim to be awake.

Channeling his inner Christ, Socrates, and Orafoura, Nietzsche gave voice to a mute mystic named Zarathustra. Chronicling his spiritual development and preemptively establishing the modern notion of postmodern ennui and apathy that accompanies everyone being at once anonymous and also mentally famous, Nietzsche was generations ahead of the World Beard and Mustache Competition.

Me, me, today it's all about me, so make me into a meme! Remember my name because you'll be forgetting it later. Lose your religion, your mind, and finally your identity as you find yourself without a home, taking shelter under the glorious mustache of a 19th-century intellectual giant.

Live in a cave as a caveman might live, but remember: You are not a caveman, despite the assurances of your mother that your derelict father was a caveman. The truth is, you are so modern you are primitive. You alone stand above man because you are Overman!

You shine like a gold-star sticker, and I'll distribute four of them to you for being so super. So in the spirit of Orafoura and handing out stars, I give this book five stars.

And remember, just because you're Superman, doesn't mean you don't have to wear a condom. In the immortal words of Nietzsche, "Syphilis? Is that some ancient Greek philosopher I've never heard of?"

This is one of those books filled with those ideas that you've thought all your life but few have the courage to admit, even to themselves.

Nietzsche takes a brutally honest look at human nature including the uglier things. He rightly shows no mercy towards clergy and the morality of self negation and pity. All is done in a beautiful, poetic style.

The moral of the story is to be above the masses, to go above your limits and to enjoy yourself while doing it. Its a positive philosophy that if implemented can make someone that rare person who rises above the herd and makes their short time on this earth worth it.

I am no literary or philosophical scholar, however even at my stage inlife it is clearly apparent that this is an important and yes dare I say "life-changing" read. This book presents the kind of ideas that ran through my head as a child making my way through the Catholic education system and so I obviously found it to be an utterly fascinating and entrancing read.

first: there is no info on what translation they used for this audio book!

ALSO- BE FOREWARNED THAT THIS IS AN ABRIDGED VERSION! there is no explanation of what they left out or why in the notes.
i give it 3 stars only for how good it was read. the reader does an excellent job, and the "intro narration" is kept to a minimum. if only they had included all the text!!!!

There are many Kindle versions of Thus Spake Zarathustra and they ARE ALL THE SAME, from Project Gutenberg. Only one translation is therefore represented (the Common one). Don't pay for it, get it for free from Project Gutenberg

I hate long reviews... All I'm gonna say is, you need to have an open mind for this book to really embrace the meaning of his words.... Life changing book... I love Nietzsce, but I specially love this TSZ...

Nietzsche has been said to be one of the greatest influances on modern philosophy, especially the existentialist movement and Zarathustra shows the reader just why he was a large influance. Nietzsche's works are truly like no ohter writer's, however, his philosophy seemed to be ignorant and sexist at times to myself, but none the less I do feel that everyone should read some of Nietzsche's works (or any philosopher's works for that matter). I do enjoy Nietzsche's argument against modern Christianity and the herd mentaility of the masses, but I think those two things would have to be my favorite philosophical views of Nietzsche. I give this book and Nietzsche in general, three stars because, while he will be an influance and is a good read, his philosophy is not the greatest at many points and is often misunderstood by people.

Thus Spoke Zarathustra is an incredible work of philosophical genius! I was amazed and challenged by it. Nietzsche's writing is very enjoyable and enlightening, whether or not one agrees with his conclusions. His philosophy is fascinating, though not for the light-hearted. This is definitely a book for thinking people who want to see the world in a new and different light!

This book is a cheap knock-off of a classic text. No translator. No editor. No indication that the book is an authoritative resource for serious readers of Nietzsche. Don't be fooled by the price, because you really get what you pay for in this case: a very poor quality book.

If your looking for a book that adequately explains Nietzschean philosophy than this one is for you. Zarathustra is likened to a tenacious and witty teller of how to build ones own character and rise above the herd as only Nietzsche can describe. The translater gives the reader summaries of each ideal prior to the four sections as well as a decent bio on Nietzsche.

Great work by one of the greatest and controversial philosophical and philological minds in history. Difficult to really grasp without a supplemental reader but valuable piece for any philosophy collection.

Nietzsche is direct and no-nonsense. At the same time this book is imaginative and poetic. I had no problem with the archaic language of this translation. It is very easy to mentally replace the"ye"s and "thou"s with their modern equivalents. Then the text reads like a charm.

This translation is quite old (now public domain) and riddled with substantial errors. Have a look at the Kaufmann translation instead and spend a few extra bucks -- the book will make far more sense if you do! More enjoyable, too...

It is impossible to sum up the human experience in any book, no matter how long, but Nietzsche came very close with this book. After I read it, my life has changed-for the better. You may not agree with everything he has to say, but he commands your respect. It is simply amazing!

Whether you love him or hate him, Nietzche casts a spell over all who open this account. From the bottom of the abysmal pits comes Zarathrustra who cries out through the printed words like a thunderstorm clapping its spirit in ecstacy.-----find a comfortable seat and enjoy!

I really tried to read it all, but could not. There are so much stupid(simple) things, that I lost my high respect to the author. I really hope that If you have to read one book from him... just go out and do something foolish, I would like you better.

Nietzsche espouses a desire to create Supermen, who will be superior to modern humans. He vilifies pity, charity and sympathy as being weak and glorifies the warrior and those who would be cruel to create strength in themselves and others. His character Zarathustra speaks in a stilted, medieval way which, I suppose, is supposed to call to mind biblical passages.

While I accept the importance of this work as philosophy and classic literature, I have to mark it as 3 stars because I felt this was, to a great extent, the philosophy espoused by Nazi Germany - at any rate, I could see where this formed part of the backbone of their society. I did not really enjoy reading it, although I feel it is important to read as many and as varied works as possible in order that I might learn something new all the time. Read it as a classical work, and as a philosophical masterpiece, but if you are troubled by the history of the Nazis, you will likely find the ideals espoused in this text to be uncomfortable.

Ah, heck. Call me uncouth or whatever, but reading these 150 year old philosophy works can often be taxing on a today-man like myself. Honestly, I wasn't ready for the thee, thou... Anyway, sorry I tarnisheth a worketh such as thiseth. My bad. Otherwise, love Nietzsche so far. I've only read two books of his, and I guess I'm surprised by how far ahead of his time he was on religious matters. Philosophy with a hammer, indeed.

bla bla bla, important book, bla bla bla, tremendous ideas, bla bla bla...

dudes, what happened? the spirit of gravity has got y'all down and you're trying to groove with sir nose d'voidafunk

read this book when you're feeling light. you won't understand a thing of what fred means if you read it in a "philosophical" mood.

if you approach this book with those droopy-frowny "serious literature" glasses and gloves on, you'll see only the reflection of your own sad-dog unfunkitude!

this is a MYTH, this is a play, this is something that came to fred when he was skipping around Italian mountainsides!

this is a book to read a bit of while dancing

if you treat it like the Bible, then that's exactly what you'll get

and that's not what fred wants you to get

so turn your mind upside down and read this book as if you randomly found it written on notebook paper in a dumpster frequented by hobos and started to read it with nothing better to do

might not be the best way to read it, but it's miles ahead of treating it with that terrible seriousness that makes everything heavy

The prophet was not meant to be understood; rather to be lived.
Have you arrived on you own, to a place where you shed all that you know to be true? Then the prophet will guide you.
You will be indebted to him, for he is as unique as Job.

This was probably an honest mistake by the store's staff, but the cover image posted for this is for the Walter Kaufmann translation. Instead, the Kindle version is the Thomas Common version, which has been rejected for decades as a corrupt and inept representation of Nietzsche's thought. The Kaufmann translation is excellent; the Common translation for Kindle, however, is a sad mistake.

This book is transfinitly excellent! Even if you don't agree with Nietzsche's conclusions or points of view this is still an interesting and worthwhile read. This book should be required reading for all inhabitants of planet earth!

This books is the memoirs of a lonely, angry man. He tries to get the reader to see through the constructs of society but the alternative he provides are foolish. He is trying to persuade the reader to learn to do whatever he wants. However if anyone took this writing literally they would find themselves incarcerated or in a coffin.... He uses the character Zarathustra to promote these desperate ramblings.

If you are easily swindled don't read this. This could seem as an outlet for adolescence but your better off reading some real stories or poems about life. The books was used by the Nazis for their causes even though Nietzsche wrote that the state was the worst possible authority (which I somewhat agree but opposes the Nazi ideology). I guess because this book just opposes everything for no valid reason. However if you wish to find more about the sources of "German phychology" mumbo jumbo, here is the source.

I'm not sure many readers caught this moment in the book but he goes so far as to say "Never insult a hermit" now the English speaking world would not have much insight into this statement but if you are anywhere from a part of the world where witches, curses, incantation is prevalent you would have more insight into why this is stated. In some parts of the world it is a common fear not to get a curse placed on you by whoever for whatever reason. Nietzsche goes so far as to say it is better to kill the hermit because he has nothing better to do than spend his time contemplating your insult, or simply put (though not explicitly stated in the text) curse you. Now why would you read such foolish garbage?

When it stated that you should whip your wife I put this book down and intend to throw it in the trash. 1 stars because it is the root of many modern ramblers and this is the source of such inspiration. To reiterated the main point, Nietzsche writes like a dejected victim who looks in all the wrong avenues for solace, and as a reader if you feel similar you could find some sense in his rambling but ultimately his propositions are nothing but ludicrous. He lived a hard life so its understandable but what he promotes is that you should too, a parallel to Zarathustra (Nietzsche) would be "Pavel Fyodorovich Smerdyakov" from the Brothers Karamazov. Go read that book instead.

Nietzsche was cared for in the last years of his life by Roman Catholic Nuns, a fact that is conveniently overlooked by most professors teaching the rants and ramblings of this phony. I suppose he's worth reading just to find out where you shouldn't go with your life and thoughts. He was a good writer though.

A prattle of an impatient and shortsighted man who lost faith in God, love for humanity and hope for life, and as a result experienced constant depression and eventually ended up in a nuthouse. This is the faith of all atheists.

No doubt ALL of Nietzsche's ideas are sheer lunacies, but I would still recommend reading them -- this book would serve as a stark warning against atheism.

"Thus Spoke Adolf Hitler". It was because of this book and Mein Kampf, the Nazis came into power, the nazi superman, ubermensch. Adolf Hitler, influenced by this book, created his idea for the Aryan superman. It is a known fact this book was widely distributed to Nazi soldiers, especially officers. His teachings were also taught in the Hitlerjugend institutions. "Triumph of the Will", "Will to Power", all Neitschze, all nazism. This book is all nazi propaganda. Another book recommendation to read in combination with studies of Neitschze philosophy: "NIETZSCHE, PROPHET OF NAZISM : THE CULT OF THE SUPERMAN; Unveiling the Nazi Secret Doctrine", by Abir Taha

MY OBJECTIONS TO THUS SPOKE ZARATHUSTRA:

1) The title is a lie, and there is no justification for using the name of a great prophet for a lunatic in a fantasy novel.

2) It is boring. The gathas of Zarathustra are a thousand times more interesting and profound than the disjointed ramblings of Nietzsche.

3) There are no interesting characters and there is no drama.

4) People actually take this book seriously and consider it 'philosophy'!