In this collection of brief lives (and deaths) of nearly two  hundred of the world's greatest thinkers, noted philosopher Simon Critchley creates  a register of mortality that is tragic, amusing, absurd, and exemplary. From the  self-mocking haikus of Zen masters on their deathbeds to the last words of Christian  saints and modern-day sages, this irresistible book contains much to inspire both  amusement and reflection.
Informed by Critchley's acute insight, scholarly intelligence,  and sprightly wit, each entry tells its own tale, but collected together they add  up to a profound and moving  investigation of meaning and the possibility of happiness  for us all.