Letters To A Young Contrarian - Book Review

Letters to a Young Contrarian
By: Christopher Hitchens


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Life Skills: 4 out of 5

Entertaining: 4 out of 5

It is a true feat of writing when a book keeps you chuckling to yourself despite having no content resembling comedy. Christopher Hitchens collection of essays aimed at young, aspiring revolutionaries explores the consequences of taking alternative stances on emotionally-charged topics. He weaves countless references to the many great minds of history who marched to the beat of their own drum in the face of doubt and vitriol.

Hitchens was very openly critical of both the left and the right over his career. He was also highly critical of monotheistic religions. Letters is something of a guide for those who agree with Hitchens controversial views and don’t know when or how to go about challenging mainstream beliefs. Even if you find his opinions disagreeable, you’ll find his prose impressive. His wit and depth of knowledge is considerable and you will see the world differently after reading.

Who should read this; Anyone who tends to move in the opposite direction of the crowds and is disenchanted with the modern political system. 

Who should skip it; Those who are intimidated or annoyed by dense text with a very highfalutin vocabulary. Anyone with tightly help political or religious beliefs that cannot handle a differing point of view.

Interesting tidbit; The Sunday Times described Hitchens as “Usually armed with a glass of Scotch and an untipped Rothmans cigarette."

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