Books of Titans Podcast 2026: The Reading Year Ahead
Jan 9, 2026
Get ready for a deep dive into Greek philosophy in 2026! The focus will be on the works of Plato and Aristotle, along with preparatory readings of earlier philosophers. Erik plans an entire month dedicated to the epic of Gilgamesh in July, exploring its rich history. He shares his unique reading schedule, divided into semesters with breaks, and even establishes a winter theme centered on trees. Join in as he discusses his reading group plans and shares personal highlights and anxieties for the year ahead!
24:18
Use A Semester Schedule
- Structure your year like a university with semesters and breaks to balance deep and light reading.
- Use January–February to read the Bible fully and reserve themed months for varied interests.
Ritual Bible Reading To Reframe Context
- Erik reads the Bible every January–February in different editions to gain fresh perspectives.
- He pairs the Intertextual Tanakh with Bibliotheca volumes to cover the Hebrew Bible and New Testament.
Read Plato's Predecessors First
- Before finishing Plato, read the Presocratics and Sophists to understand Plato's references.
- Buy introductory collections like The First Philosophers and Heraclitus' Fragments to fill background gaps.
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Intro
00:00 • 34sec
2026 Theme: Greek Philosophy Focus
00:34 • 49sec
Background of the Immortal Books Project
01:23 • 2min
Annual Reading Schedule Structure
03:24 • 4min
Spring Semester: Preparing to Read Plato
07:21 • 4min
July Theme: A Gilgamesh Month
11:08 • 4min
Fall Semester: Transition to Aristotle
14:55 • 2min
December Break: Exploring Trees
16:30 • 2min
Local Reading Group Schedule
18:03 • 2min
Highlights, Fears, and Habits for 2026
20:13 • 3min
Outro
23:28 • 26sec
#3545
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One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn
Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn's "One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich" offers a stark and unforgettable portrayal of life in a Soviet labor camp.
Through the eyes of Ivan Denisovich Shukhov, the novel depicts the harsh realities of daily existence under Stalinist oppression.
Solzhenitsyn's masterful use of detail creates a vivid and immersive experience, allowing readers to feel the cold, the hunger, and the constant threat of violence.
The novel's power lies in its unflinching honesty and its ability to evoke empathy for the suffering of its protagonist.
Despite the grim setting, the story also reveals the resilience of the human spirit and the capacity for hope even in the face of unimaginable hardship.
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Cuneiform
Irving Finkel
Jonathan Taylor
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Our Name is Dare
Kev Coleman
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Gilgamesh the King
Robert Silverberg
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Two We Have Faces
C.S. Lewis
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Jason and the Golden Fleece
Apollonius
#102497
The Fragments of Heraclitus
G. T. W. Patrick
Heraclitus
This book presents the remaining fragments of Heraclitus' philosophical treatise 'On Nature', which originally covered the universe, politics, and theology.
Heraclitus is famous for his ideas on constant change, as encapsulated in the phrase 'No man ever steps in the same river twice.
' The fragments are translated and accompanied by critical commentary to provide insight into his philosophical thoughts.
#476
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The Epic of Gilgamesh
Andrew George
Anonymous
The Epic of Gilgamesh tells the story of Gilgamesh, the king of Uruk, who is two-thirds god and one-third human.
The gods create Enkidu, a wild man, to counterbalance Gilgamesh's oppressive rule.
Enkidu and Gilgamesh become friends after a trial of strength and embark on several adventures, including the slaying of the monster Humbaba and the killing of the Bull of Heaven.
Following Enkidu's death, Gilgamesh sets out on a perilous journey to find Utnapishtim, the survivor of the Babylonian Flood, in search of the secret of eternal life.
Despite his efforts, Gilgamesh learns that death is inevitable and returns to Uruk, reconciled to his mortality and appreciative of the enduring achievements of humanity.
#63230
Myths from Mesopotamia
Stephanie Daly
Stephanie Daly's "Myths from Mesopotamia" offers a comprehensive collection of Mesopotamian myths and legends, providing valuable insights into the religious beliefs and cultural practices of ancient Mesopotamia.
The book delves into the rich tapestry of stories, exploring themes of creation, flood narratives, and heroic tales.
Daly's expertise in Assyriology ensures accurate translations and insightful interpretations of these ancient texts.
The book is a significant contribution to the field of Mesopotamian studies, making these fascinating myths accessible to a wider audience.
It serves as a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts alike, offering a deeper understanding of the ancient world.
#4944
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The Hidden Life of Trees
Peter Wohlleben
Benjamin Flouw
Peter Wohlleben's "The Hidden Life of Trees" explores the complex social lives of trees, revealing their communication methods, symbiotic relationships, and intricate ecosystems.
Wohlleben challenges traditional forestry practices and advocates for a more holistic approach to forest management.
The book uses scientific research to illustrate the surprising intelligence and interconnectedness of trees, highlighting their ability to cooperate and support each other.
It emphasizes the importance of preserving old-growth forests and understanding the vital role trees play in maintaining a healthy planet.
The book's accessible style and captivating storytelling have made it a bestseller worldwide.
#7986
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Billy Budd
Herman Melville
#10373
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My Antonia
Willa Cather
The novel, narrated by Jim Burden, recounts his childhood and adolescence on the Nebraska prairie and his deep friendship with Ántonia Shimerda, the daughter of a family of Bohemian immigrants.
The story explores themes of pioneer life, the American Dream, the immigrant experience, and the passage of time.
Ántonia faces numerous hardships, including her father's suicide, near-rape, and abandonment by a lover, yet she remains resilient and strong.
The novel is praised for its poetic descriptions of the landscape, its portrayal of a complex female protagonist, and its exploration of cultural diversity and gender roles.
#32588
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Early Greek Philosophy
Robin Waterfield
#5637
• Mentioned in 9 episodes
A Good Man is Hard to Find
Flannery O'Connor
Published in 1955, 'A Good Man Is Hard to Find' is a short story by Flannery O'Connor that follows a Georgia family on a road trip to Florida.
The grandmother manipulates the family into taking a detour to visit an old plantation, leading them into a fateful encounter with The Misfit, a violent escaped convict.
The story critiques superficial religious attitudes and explores the conflict between appearance and reality, particularly through the characters of the grandmother and The Misfit.
It is a tale of moral and philosophical introspection, set against the backdrop of the Southern Gothic tradition, characterized by dark humor, violence, and a sense of foreboding.
#6411
• Mentioned in 8 episodes
On the soul
Aristotle
Aristotle's "On the Soul" is a significant work in the history of psychology and philosophy of mind.
It explores the nature of the soul, its relationship to the body, and its various functions.
The book examines different aspects of the soul, including its nutritive, sensitive, and rational capacities.
"On the Soul" has influenced philosophical and scientific discussions about consciousness, perception, and the mind-body problem for centuries.
Its enduring relevance lies in its insightful exploration of the nature of consciousness and the relationship between mind and body.
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The Nutcracker and the Mouse King
E. T. A. Hoffmann
Natalie Andrewson
The story follows Marie, a young girl who receives a nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve. As the night unfolds, the nutcracker comes to life and leads an army of toys against the seven-headed Mouse King.
The tale involves a magical world, curses, and the ultimate triumph of the nutcracker with Marie's help.
Natalie Andrewson's adaptation retains the dark and fantastical elements of Hoffmann's original while adding a modern and illustrative twist.
#3809
• Mentioned in 13 episodes
Apology
Plato
Plato's *Apology* is a historical and philosophical account of Socrates' defense at his trial in 399 BCE. Socrates was charged with corrupting the youth and impiety, but instead of apologizing, he defended his actions as a philosopher, emphasizing his commitment to truth and virtue.
The dialogue captures Socrates' fearless reasoning and his reflections on mortality, leading to his eventual sentencing to death by drinking hemlock.
#724
• Mentioned in 46 episodes
Candide
François-Marie Arouet
Voltaire
Candide, written by Voltaire, is a satirical novel that critiques metaphysical optimism, particularly the philosophy of Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz.
The story revolves around Candide, a naive and optimistic young man who is expelled from his home after an illicit affair with the baron's daughter, Cunégonde.
Candide and his companions, including his tutor Pangloss, experience a series of horrific events such as wars, earthquakes, slavery, and other atrocities.
Despite these hardships, Pangloss persists in his belief that 'all is for the best in this best of all possible worlds.
' The novel ultimately concludes with Candide and his friends settling on a farm in Turkey, where they find happiness by focusing on practical, everyday tasks rather than philosophical speculations.
Voltaire uses satire to lampoon various aspects of 18th-century society, including science, philosophy, religion, and government.
#24160
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
The Babylonian genesis
Alexander Heidel
The book provides a complete translation of the Enuma Elish and other Babylonian creation stories, along with commentaries.
It outlines the discovery, purpose, date, source, and structure of the Enuma Elish.
The book is divided into four chapters, covering the translation of the epic, other Babylonian and Mesopotamian creation accounts, and comparisons with biblical creation stories.
Heidel aimed the book at biblical scholars and Christian ministers, highlighting the parallels between Mesopotamian and Hebrew mythology, although some of his arguments have been overturned by later scholarship.
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The Gilgamesh epic and Old Testament parallels
Alexander Heidel
#5347
• Mentioned in 9 episodes
Medea
Euripides
The play revolves around Medea, a Colchian princess and sorceress, who seeks revenge against her husband Jason after he decides to marry Glauce, the daughter of King Creon of Corinth.
Medea, feeling betrayed and dishonored, plots to kill Glauce, Creon, and her own children to inflict maximum pain on Jason.
With the help of Aegeus, King of Athens, who offers her sanctuary, Medea executes her plan, leading to the tragic deaths of several characters and her eventual escape in a chariot provided by her grandfather, the sun-god Helios.
The play explores themes of injustice, revenge, and the power of women in ancient Greek society.
#16780
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The Ark Before Noah
Decoding the Story of the Flood
Irving Finkel
In this book, Irving Finkel deciphers a recently discovered cuneiform tablet that reveals a new version of the Babylonian Flood Story.
The tablet provides detailed boat-building specifications and describes the ark as a giant round boat, or coracle.
Finkel's work opens up new insights into the ancient Mesopotamian world and its influence on biblical narratives.
The book is a blend of detective work, historical scholarship, and engaging storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the origins of the Noah's Ark story.
#95803
The Overcoat
Nikolai Gogol
Nikolai Gogol's 'The Overcoat' tells the tragicomic story of Akaky Akakievich, a poor St. Petersburg clerk who dedicates his life to copying documents.
Akaky's threadbare overcoat becomes the symbol of his poverty and insignificance.
When a new overcoat is acquired, it briefly elevates Akaky's social standing and brings him joy.
The overcoat is stolen, plunging Akaky back into despair and leading to his untimely death.
The story critiques social injustice and the dehumanizing effects of bureaucracy, blending realism with elements of the grotesque and supernatural.
#41
• Mentioned in 267 episodes
Moby Dick
Herman Melville
Moby-Dick is a novel that tells the story of Captain Ahab's maniacal quest for revenge against Moby Dick, the giant white sperm whale that bit off his leg.
Narrated by Ishmael, the story follows the crew of the whaling ship Pequod as they embark on a journey that explores themes of obsession, man vs.
nature, and the existential questions of good and evil.
The novel is rich in detailed descriptions of whale hunting and life aboard a culturally diverse crew, and it has become a cornerstone of American and world literature.
#178
• Mentioned in 123 episodes
Nicomachean Ethics
Aristotle
The Nicomachean Ethics is Aristotle's most renowned work on ethics, focusing on the science of the good for human life.
The text is divided into ten books and discusses the concept of eudaimonia, often translated as 'happiness' or 'flourishing,' which is achieved through living a virtuous life.
Aristotle argues that eudaimonia is an activity of the soul in accordance with virtue, emphasizing the importance of reason, moral virtues, and the pursuit of excellence.
The work also explores the division of the soul, the role of rationality in human life, and the ultimate goal of human activity, which is to achieve happiness through virtuous actions and a complete life.
#25814
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
The First Ghosts
Irving Finkel
#378
• Mentioned in 76 episodes
Tools of Titans
The Tactics, Routines, and Habits of Billionaires, Icons, and World-Class Performers
Ryan Holiday
Mike Del Ponte
Therese Plummer
Ray Porter
Tim Ferriss
Kaleo Griffith
Kevin Rose
Jocko Willink
Tim Kreider
Tools of Titans is a comprehensive guide to achieving peak performance and personal transformation.
The book is divided into three main sections: Healthy, Wealthy, and Wise.
It features insights and strategies from over 200 interviews with successful individuals such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Ariana Huffington, and many others.
Ferriss highlights common patterns among these high achievers, including daily meditation, disciplined routines, and the ability to turn weaknesses into strengths.
The book is designed to be a resource for continuous learning and improvement, providing actionable advice and tools for readers to enhance their health, wealth, and wisdom.
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The cave and the light
Arthur Herman
In 'The Cave and the Light', Arthur Herman delves into the contrasting philosophies of Plato and Aristotle, tracing their influence on Western history from ancient Greece to modern times.
The book provides a rich narrative that highlights the creative tension between these two foundational thinkers and their lasting impact on political, religious, and philosophical developments.
#13060
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
From Plato to Christ
Louis Markos
From Plato to Christ: How Platonic Thought Shaped the Christian Faith.
In this lively discussion, the two look at Plato’s best-known texts and talk about how it affected figures like Augustine, Dante, and C. S. Lewis.
READING YEAR THEME: GREEK PHILOSOPHY
I’ll be spending most of 2026 ploughing the depths of Plato and Aristotle. I divide eating reading year into semesters:
* Spring Semester - March - June
* Summer Break - July
* Fall Semester - August - November
* Winter Break - December
I start each year reading straight through the Bible during January & February. The versions I’m using this year are The Intertextual Tanakh (tah knock), Bibliotheca (The Latter Prophets, The Writings, The Apocrypha, and The New Testament)
Spring Semester Book List (Subject to Change)
I started Plato during Fall Semester last year. I’ll be continuing on, but am first taking a look at philosophers before Plato since he keeps referencing them. I’ll then return to the 20 or so dialogues of Plato that I have remaining within the Complete Works set.
* The First Philosophers: The Presocratics and the Sophists
* Early Greek Philosophy
* Heraclitus Fragments
* The Greek Sophists
* Plato: Complete Works
* The Republic / Bloom
* A Commentary on Plato’s Meno / Jacob Klein
* From Plato to Christ / Louis Markos
* The Cave and the Light / Arthur Herman
Summer Break
I’m going to dedicate the month of July to Gilgamesh. I love that epic so much and am going to read some of the books pictured above. I’ve been collecting anything I find about Gilgamesh and it’s time to read those books. If you know of other books related to Gilgamesh that I must read, please let me know in the comments below.
Fall Semester (Subject to Change)
If I finish reading Plato during the Spring Semester, I’ll begin reading Aristotle in the Fall Semester. Like Plato, I’m planing on reading the complete works of Aristotle. I realize that’s excessive and may change my tune, but why not. He’s one of the greatest philosophers of all time.
* The Complete Works of Aristotle Volume 1 / Hackett
* The Complete Works of Aristotle Volume 2 / Hackett
* From Aristotle to Christ / Louis Markos
Winter Break
I’m going to explore another area of interest during December - Trees! I know nothing about these strange things surrounding us outside and simply want to know more. I don’t have a list yet, so suggestions are welcome. There’s only one book so far that I keep seeing over and over again:
* The Hidden Life of Trees
Short Great Books Reading Group
I lead a reading group in Franklin, TN and this year we’ll be covering the following books, so I’ll be interspersing these books with the list above. More details here.
* A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O’Connor - Jan 12
* The Overcoat by Nikolai Gogol - Feb 2
* Our Name is Dare by Kev Coleman - March 2
* One Day in the Life of Ivan Denisovich by Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn April 6
* Medea by Euripides - May 4
* Apology (Defense of Socrates) by Plato - June 1
* Till We Have Faces by C.S. Lewis - July 6
* Billy Budd by Herman Melville - August 3
* My Antonia by Willa Cather - September 7 (Labor Day)
* Candide by Voltaire - October 5
* Jason and the Golden Fleece by Apollonius - November 2
* The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E.T.A. Hoffmann - December 7
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