The Book of Delights

Synopsis

A NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
As Heard on NPR's This American Life
'The delights he extols here (music, laughter, generosity, poetry, lots of nature) are bulwarks against casual cruelties . . . contagious in their joy' New York Times

The winner of the NBCC Award for Poetry offers up a spirited collection of short lyric essays, written daily over a tumultuous year, reminding us of the purpose and pleasure of praising, extolling, and celebrating ordinary wonders.

Among Gay's funny, poetic, philosophical delights: a friend's unabashed use of air quotes, cradling a tomato seedling aboard an aeroplane, the silent nod of acknowledgement between the only two black people in a room. But Gay never dismisses the complexities, even the terrors, of living in America as a black man or the ecological and psychic violence of our consumer culture or the loss of those he loves. More than anything other subject, though, Gay celebrates the beauty of the natural world - his garden, the flowers peeking out of the sidewalk, the hypnotic movements of a praying mantis.

The Book of Delights is about our shared bonds, and the rewards that come from a life closely observed. These remarkable pieces serve as a powerful and necessary reminder that we can, and should, stake out a space in our lives for delight.

***

'These charming, digressive "essayettes" surprise and challenge more than a reader might expect . . . experiences of "delight," recorded daily for a year, vary widely but yield revealing patterns through insights about everything from nature and the body to race and masculinity.' New Yorker

'Pure balm for your soul. Savor one at a time every morning, this summer, or wolf them all down en masse on a gorgeous sunny day.' Celeste Ng

'A reminder of what the personal essay is best at: finding the profound in the mundane . . . His delight is infectious. It's hard to read Gay and not to be won over.' Seattle Times

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Summary

Chapter 1: Rain

* Summary: This chapter explores the simple yet profound delights of rain, from its comforting patter to its refreshing scent.
* Example: The author describes the feeling of standing under a warm summer rain, watching the droplets dance on the pavement and smelling the sweet fragrance of wet earth.

Chapter 2: Laughter

* Summary: Laughter is celebrated as a universal language and a powerful expression of joy.
* Example: The author recounts a story of a comedian who made her audience laugh so hard they cried, leaving them with a sense of lightness and connection.

Chapter 3: Books

* Summary: This chapter exalts the delights of reading, highlighting the immersive experiences and boundless knowledge books offer.
* Example: The author describes the thrill of discovering a new book that captivates her imagination, transporting her to different worlds and expanding her perspectives.

Chapter 4: Walking

* Summary: Walking is presented as a meditative and restorative activity that allows us to connect with ourselves and our surroundings.
* Example: The author describes a walk through a forest, noticing the subtle changes in the environment and feeling a sense of peace and rejuvenation.

Chapter 5: Tea

* Summary: Tea is celebrated as a cozy and comforting beverage that brings people together and evokes a sense of tranquility.
* Example: The author describes the ritual of preparing and drinking tea, savoring its warmth and aroma while engaging in meaningful conversations.

Chapter 6: Candles

* Summary: Candles are described as symbols of warmth, comfort, and inspiration that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
* Example: The author describes the flickering flames of candles dancing in the darkness, casting soft shadows and creating a sense of intimacy.

Chapter 7: Music

* Summary: Music is hailed as a universal language that has the power to move, inspire, and connect people.
* Example: The author recounts a concert where she was transported by the melodies and rhythms, feeling a surge of emotions and a sense of shared humanity.

Chapter 8: Sunlight

* Summary: Sunlight is celebrated as a life-giving force that brings warmth, energy, and clarity.
* Example: The author describes the feeling of waking up to a sunny morning, basking in its golden rays and feeling invigorated and optimistic.

Chapter 9: Dancing

* Summary: Dancing is presented as a joyful and expressive activity that allows us to connect with our bodies and emotions.
* Example: The author describes the experience of dancing at a party, letting go of inhibitions and feeling a sense of liberation and exhilaration.

Chapter 10: Kindness

* Summary: Kindness is extolled as a transformative force that brings happiness to both the giver and the recipient.
* Example: The author recounts a story of a stranger offering help in a time of need, creating a ripple effect of positivity.