Worldly Virtues Author:Johannes A. Gaertner Worldly Virtues is an elegant collection of reflections on the great classic virutes by which we may endeavor to live our lives. Johannes Gaertner's philosophical musings shed fresh, contemporary light on old-world virtues, from "sensitivity," "beauty," and "prudence" to "compassion," intellect," "tact," and the value of "absurdity." Often wit... more »ty sometimes dry, and always insightful, the meditations possess a simplicity which belies a depth of emotion and richness of meaning. The author, a professor with a world-view enriched by a long life in many cultures, assembled these entries over the course of many years; his daughter found them, published them as a Christmas gift to him, and the book went on to become an undergroun bestseller in hardcover. This is the first paperback edition to be released in the United States.« less