War and Peace

A great read if you persevere

A truly epic novel that resonates through time with its enduring themes of the reasons that nations fight, the corrupting influence of wealth (especially inherited wealth) and privilege, the hypocrisy and self interest that destroys relationships. At the personal level, Tolstoy explores the absurdity of much that we value, love in its many forms, the secret to a fulfilled life and the mystery of death. This was my second reading thirty years after the first and I felt like I was reading a different book. I appreciated again Tolstoy’s genius for description and emotional insight and so much more. Definitely worth persevering, reading over a short period and reflecting on the deeper meaning beyond the fascinating historical context.