On Sartre by Nikita

On Sartre by Nikita - February 2015 Scholarship Essay

My favorite work of writing is Sartre’s Existentialism is a Humanism, Which is technically not a book, however, it remains just as rewarding a read as its denser counterparts. I believe this work to be the single most influential piece I have read, especially since it came at a time of immense change during my life; High school.

We all know or have known the feeling of studying for a test on a subject we never cared for, feeling like there was no point in getting out of the bed in the morning or just simply not caring where life would take us. Well if that is the disease then Sartre is the cure. His essay centers on three important aspects which he believes should govern the lives of those who “practice good faith.” That is to say, those who live life the way it should be lived, by placing all the responsibility, all the weight of the world on their own shoulders. And in doing so, in realizing the great burden of life, man becomes free to choose his destiny, he becomes free to do what he can with the things he has been given.

All the lessons within this work can be translated into a successful and happy life, which is why I recommend this book be read by every high schooler.