Plot Summary

For the Time Being

Annie Dillard
Guide cover placeholder

For the Time Being

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 1999

Book Brief

Annie Dillard

For the Time Being

Nonfiction | Essay Collection | Adult | Published in 1999
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Essay Collection • Nonfiction

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

For the Time Being by Annie Dillard is a series of essays exploring the profound questions of human existence, such as the meaning of life, the impact of individual actions, and the interplay between art, nature, spirituality, good, evil, and time. Through varied examples, including experiences of birth and suffering, Dillard delves into the complexities and mysteries of being human, ultimately embracing the uncertainty and wonder inherent in life. The book includes discussions of birth defects and suffering.

Contemplative

Mysterious

Inspirational

Informative

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.3

4,519 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Annie Dillard's For the Time Being is an eloquent meditation merging science, philosophy, and spirituality. Critics praise its lyrical prose and deep reflections on existence. However, some find its nonlinear structure and thematic complexity challenging. Overall, it's applauded for its thought-provoking and poetic exploration of life's intricacies.

Who should read this

Who Should Read For the Time Being?

A reader who enjoys contemplating profound philosophical and spiritual questions, blending scientific curiosity with poetic prose, would appreciate For the Time Being by Annie Dillard. Fans of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring or Mary Oliver's poetry would find similar depth and beauty in Dillard’s exploration of existence and meaning.

4.3

4,519 ratings

78%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Essay Collection • Nonfiction

Publication Year

1999

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Buy This Book

We’re just getting started

Add this title to our list of requested Study Guides!