“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” –Man’s Search for Meaning
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Man’s Search For Meaning (1946) is one of my favorite books of all time. Written by Holocaust survivor Viktor E. Frankl, it provides a vivid account of his harrowing experiences in Nazi concentration camps and introduces his psychotherapy method for identifying one’s purpose in life. I first read this book back in 2017. As a student of history, I was drawn to its profound themes and Frankl’s poignant recounting of his experiences.
The book is a harrowing account of the horrors of the concentration camp, depicting the horrific suffering and abuse of inmates. Guards and kapos, who were often more brutal in their maltreatment, were put in charge of torturing their fellow prisoners.
Yet, amidst this darkness, there is hope and light. Frankl writes about certain inmates within the camp who continued to care for those around them despite their impoverished state. Within the camp, he reflects on his life and the meaning of his existence. Even in the harshest circumstances, he does not succumb to the darkness of self-preservation alone. He describes dreams of his wife and his family as he labors in the fields.
Despite the depersonalization Frankl faced in the camps, he never lost sight of his humanity and continued to persevere until he was liberated. Even after liberation, survivors faced much struggle in their recovery, grappling with the harsh realities of loss and grief, as many had lost their entire families.
In sum, it is the inmates’ mindset and attitude that allow them to withstand the most horrendous conditions of human suffering. Frankl’s willpower to live and survive against all odds empowers him to choose hope even amidst hopelessness and unparalleled horrors. With this unbreakable spirit, one emerges as the victor, not allowing the oppressor to win over one’s mind, even though one is physically subjugated.
I highly recommend this book. It is an unforgettable read that has stayed with me for years since I first encountered it.
aaarthorse 