What I Talk About When I Talk About Running vs. Confessions of an Advertising Man
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running
What I Talk About When I Talk About Running is a memoir by Haruki Murakami where he talks about two things that define a big part of his life: running and writing. Murakami didn’t always plan on being a novelist. He was running a jazz bar in his twenties when, while watching a baseball game, he suddenly thought, “I could write a novel.” He gave it a shot, it worked out, and he eventually sold his bar to focus on writing full-time. But sitting at a desk all day, smoking and not moving much, wasn’t doing his health any good. That’s when he picked up running. For Murakami, running is more than just exercise—it’s part of his routine and, in a way, a metaphor for writing. Both take endurance. Both are long hauls where you push yourself day after day, even when you don’t feel like it. The book follows him as he trains for marathons, competes in triathlons, and grapples with the slow decline of his physical abilities as he ages. He talks a lot about acceptance—accepting getting older, accept...
Confessions of an Advertising Man
David Ogilvy was considered the "father of advertising" and a creative genius by many of the biggest global brands. First published in 1963, this seminal book revolutionized the world of advertising and became a bible for the 1960s ad generation. It also became an international bestseller, translated into 14 languages. Fizzing with Ogilvy's pioneering ideas and inspirational philosophy, it covers not only advertising, but also people management, corporate ethics, and office politics, and forms an essential blueprint for good practice in business.


Reviews
Reviewed on 2/28/2024
I read this book when I first started running long distance. I was living in Chiang Mai and I'd go this huge park a couple of times a week and just run loops around the lake. At the end of my run I'd grab a milk tea and a banana bread from a local coffee shop and just read a few pages. Great memories of many chill evenings, running and reading about running.
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Easy read | 1 | |
Motivating | 1 | |
Peaceful | 1 |
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Advertising Bible | 1 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' by Haruki Murakami and 'Confessions of an Advertising Man' by David Ogilvy cater to different interests. Murakami's book is a reflective narrative on running and its impact on his life and writing, making it ideal for readers interested in personal growth and motivation. On the other hand, Ogilvy's book is a classic in the advertising industry, offering insights into advertising principles, people management, and business ethics. The better choice depends on whether you are looking for inspiration in personal endeavors or professional guidance in advertising.
Both books can be motivating but in different ways. 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' by Haruki Murakami is motivating for those who are into personal stories of perseverance and the mental and physical benefits of running. It provides a peaceful and easy read that inspires readers to pursue their passions. 'Confessions of an Advertising Man' by David Ogilvy, on the other hand, is motivating for professionals in the advertising industry, offering invaluable insights and pioneering ideas that can drive one's career forward. The motivation you seek will depend on your personal or professional interests.
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' by Haruki Murakami is generally considered an easier read. It is written in a diary-like style, sharing personal stories and reflections that flow smoothly and are accessible to a broad audience. 'Confessions of an Advertising Man' by David Ogilvy, while also well-written, is more focused on professional advice and industry insights, which might require more concentration and interest in the field of advertising.
'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' is a memoir by Haruki Murakami that explores the intertwined themes of running and writing. Murakami shares his journey from running a jazz bar to becoming a novelist, detailing how running became a crucial part of his life and a metaphor for his writing process. The book reflects on endurance, acceptance of aging, and the highs and lows of both running and writing.
Pros of 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' include its easy readability, motivating content, and the peaceful tone of Murakami's writing. There are no cons listed for this book, indicating that readers generally find it to be a positive experience.
Haruki Murakami is a renowned Japanese author known for his unique blend of magical realism, surrealism, and themes of loneliness and existentialism. He gained international fame with novels such as 'Norwegian Wood' and 'Kafka on the Shore.' In 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running,' he shares personal insights into his life as a writer and runner.
The writing style of 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running' is straightforward and conversational, as if Murakami is sharing his thoughts over coffee. He often includes personal anecdotes and reflections, making the narrative relatable and engaging for readers.
In 'What I Talk About When I Talk About Running,' memorable moments include Murakami's experiences training for marathons, his reflections on aging and acceptance, and the simple joys of running, such as the satisfaction of finishing a race and enjoying a cold beer afterward. His vivid descriptions of running the original marathon route in Greece also stand out.
'Confessions of an Advertising Man' is a seminal book written by David Ogilvy, widely regarded as the 'father of advertising.' First published in 1963, the book revolutionized the advertising world and became a bible for the 1960s ad generation. It covers a wide range of topics including advertising, people management, corporate ethics, and office politics, and serves as an essential blueprint for good practice in business.
The pros of 'Confessions of an Advertising Man' include its status as an 'Advertising Bible,' offering pioneering ideas and an inspirational philosophy that has influenced many in the advertising industry. No cons have been listed by users so far.
David Ogilvy is considered the 'father of advertising' and a creative genius by many of the biggest global brands. He revolutionized the advertising industry with his pioneering ideas and inspirational philosophy, which he detailed in his seminal book, 'Confessions of an Advertising Man.'