Elon Musk vs. Barbarian Days by William Finnegan
Elon Musk
This is the only audiobook I've ever listened to lol. But it is a very interesting story about Elon, arguably the most interesting person alive.
Barbarian Days by William Finnegan
Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life is William Finnegan’s story about growing up obsessed with surfing. It’s not just about catching waves—it’s about a whole way of life that’s demanding, addictive, and sometimes dangerous. Finnegan started young, learning to surf in California and Hawaii, and kept chasing waves into adulthood, traveling through places like Fiji, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa. Along the way, he mixes adventure with self-reflection, talking about friendships formed in the water, the culture around surfing, and how it all fit with the times—especially during the social changes of the 1960s and '70s. The book isn’t just about the thrill of surfing; Finnegan dives into the technical side of waves and the patience it takes to master them. He’s honest about his youthful recklessness—like taking LSD before surfing a massive wave in Maui—and the risks that came with his travels, from malaria scares to navigating shady markets. Still, surfing pulls him along, even when he’s jugg...
Reviews
Reviewed on 6/6/2024
I listened to this audiobook once and will probably listen to it again. A great listen that I will recommend to anyone who wants to know how Musks is able to pull off running a bajillion successful companies at once.
Reviews
Reviewed on 2/25/2025
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| Very interesting story | 1 |
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| very long, huge commitment | 1 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
'Barbarian Days' is a Pulitzer Prize-winning autobiography focused on the author's experiences with surfing, offering a deep and personal narrative. In contrast, the 'Elon Musk' audiobook provides an engaging account of Musk's life and achievements, appealing to those interested in entrepreneurship and innovation. The choice between the two depends on whether you prefer a memoir centered around surfing or a biography of a contemporary figure known for his impact on technology and business.
'Elon Musk' is noted for its interesting narrative about a highly influential figure, making it potentially more engaging for listeners interested in modern innovation and business. 'Barbarian Days', while also compelling, focuses on a specific lifestyle and passion for surfing, which may resonate more with those who appreciate personal stories related to sports and adventure. Ultimately, the engagement level will depend on the listener's interests.
'Elon Musk' is described as a very long audiobook, indicating it requires a significant time commitment. In contrast, 'Barbarian Days' does not have any noted length issues, making it potentially a quicker listen. Therefore, if time is a concern, 'Barbarian Days' may be the better option.
The audiobook 'Elon Musk' is a captivating story about Elon Musk, who is considered one of the most fascinating individuals alive. It delves into his life, exploring how he manages to run multiple successful companies simultaneously.
Pros of the 'Elon Musk' audiobook include its very interesting story. However, one con is that it is very long and requires a significant commitment.
Yes, the 'Elon Musk' audiobook is highly recommended for anyone interested in learning how Elon Musk manages to run multiple successful companies. It is a great listen that many find worth revisiting.
'Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life' is a memoir by William Finnegan that chronicles his lifelong obsession with surfing. The book explores not only the thrill of catching waves but also the culture surrounding surfing, the friendships formed in the water, and the personal reflections that come with a life dedicated to this demanding and sometimes dangerous sport. Finnegan shares his experiences from California and Hawaii to Fiji, Australia, Indonesia, and Africa, blending adventure with introspection.
'Barbarian Days' delves into several themes, including the passion and addiction associated with surfing, the risks involved in pursuing this lifestyle, and the impact of social changes during the 1960s and '70s. Finnegan reflects on his youthful recklessness, the technical aspects of surfing, and the balance between his career as a war reporter and his love for the ocean.
William Finnegan's writing in 'Barbarian Days' is characterized by vivid descriptions and a reflective tone. He captures both the beauty and the challenges of surfing, making readers feel as if they are experiencing the adventures alongside him. His narrative combines storytelling with insightful observations about life, friendship, and the allure of the ocean.
While there are no specific pros and cons listed for 'Barbarian Days', readers often appreciate its engaging storytelling and deep exploration of surfing culture. Some may find the technical aspects of surfing and the author's personal reflections to be less appealing if they are not interested in the sport. Overall, it is celebrated for its literary quality and the way it captures the essence of a life spent chasing waves.
