It is like demanding the sea be entirely still before we sail on it. … if we demand the future be free from suffering in order to be happy, we can’t be happy. Perhaps because it’s pertinent to the unsettled times we are living in, the multiple entries on uncertainty and hope stood out. Personally, I found some gems – truly, all I ask from a self-help book is one or two ‘take-home messages’ – this had more than one or two. Readers who are unfamiliar with Haig’s style, might find The Comfort Book a little unorganised, and perhaps obvious or repetitive in parts. Much of the book is based around Haig’s experience with suicidal depression and anxiety, and it builds on what he explored in Reasons to Stay Alive (which remains one of the best books I’ve read about depression). As a result, some entries will resonate more than others (although, the entry which simply says – ‘ No physical appearance is worth not eating pasta for’ is universal, and equally, ‘ It’s rare to escape a maze on the first attempt’, is also useful). Like any book of this nature, it’s one you can open to any page – it’s probably the best way to read it, taking from it what you need at any one time. Instead, his words are intended to soothe in times when many people are feeling frayed. Haig doesn’t claim to have any particular insight or expertise. The Comfort Book by Matt Haig is a collection of thoughts and reflections on happiness and hope.
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