The Eloquence of Effort: Beware the Path of Least Resistance (Book) - 3/18/2022 12:02:29 PM
Born into a rural Colombian family, I was the first to aspire to higher education. Because of dire circumstances, my family concluded that my pursuit of an academic career would be futile. Beset with ADHD and poverty-stricken, I desperately needed financial and social support systems. Moreover, I lacked role models. But I loved science and dreamt of transforming my lot: a Master’s degree in Engineering appealed to my rudimentary instincts. In this bleak environment, I found solace within the pages of The Eloquence of the Effort. Every inspirational line nourished my aspirations.
I read it slowly – a few lines a day. It spurred me on. It fuelled the motivation demanded to tackle the difficult obstacles en route to my end goal. The graphic historical references were studies in perseverance and the rewards of sustained effort. I learned how the oppression of colonialism influenced global events, especially in Latin America, the Caribbean and India; how the powerful subjugated the unsuspecting to advance their self-serving goals at the cost of millions of lives.
I was enchanted by some of the characters referenced. I could identify with them. Key characters in our historical constellation have been afflicted with ADHD or some kind of neurodiversity. The neuroses of Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln and Vincent Van Gogh floods the mind. I was, therefore, elated to understand that I was not weirdly unusual: that some individuals are distinct because they dare think differently. That infused me with an energy that defied explanation. I do readily acknowledge that I am not of the same thinking as the protagonists highlighted. It was reassuring, nonetheless, to see common threads. I can relate to many.
The author tried to present the facts as objectively as one could. In part, this may be due to his scientific training. I relished greatly his sense of humour and wit. How does one rationalize the paradoxes like: cheap labour is expensive; the easiest way to succeed is to work hard. Yet, in the context, it made perfect sense.
I am looking forward to reading his next book. I trust that it will feature great women. Despite my emotional frailties, I hope that someday I can figure prominently in a good book. That, however would reinforce the morals enshrined in The Eloquence of Effort.
The Eloquence of Effort: Beware the Path of Least Resistance (Book) - 1/12/2019 10:11:15 AM
From this small description and your reviews that are five-star, I believe you have a winner with this book that describes exactly the way that I feel about effort and results. I admire people like Elon Musk and Steve Jobs, who, in spite of their failures and idiosyncrasies, propel us forward into new realms of science and technology.
An excerpt from your book would also help the reader determine your writing style and whether or not they would want to read you.
Ron
