KIRKUS Review: Form & Essence
KIRKUS Review: December 29, 2022
A valuable, transformative prescription for a life of greater truth.
In Hinsley’s view, truth is the result of a balance of “Form & Essence”—an interconnection between the measurable, physical world and the invisible threads of spirit that give life larger meaning. But the culture that readers know is frequently out of balance, valuing force and focusing on superficial hallmarks of success. Sidetracked by the allure of comparison, people praise high grades and trophies over mental health and allow social media obsessions to supplant social interactions. In this Form-focused world, people’s peace of mind is sacrificed in the pursuit of status symbols, resulting in a society that is at best distracted and at worst polarized and toxic.
But, as the author asserts, hope for a better life is not lost. The peace of mind that readers seek lies buried amid their material possessions, competitions, and social media feeds in the realm of Essence. Though intangible, Essence surrounds people in emotions, personality, and creativity—all the subtle qualities that make them human and wonderfully unique. While Hinsley is not alone in suggesting that immaterialism offers a path to greater well-being, he does not advocate a life devoid of measurable achievements. Instead, he asserts that Form & Essence yield interconnected value, revealing and empowering success through truth.
Drawing on numerous real-world examples, the author skillfully illustrates how fear, defensiveness, and perfectionism can stifle achievement. Supporting these stories with the writings of various thinkers, such as Eckhart Tolle, Nir Eyal, and Angela Lee Duckworth, and citing popular works like David Wan, John de Graaf, and Thomas Naylor’s Affluenza (2001) and Jim Collins’ Good to Great (2001), Hinsley crafts a meticulously researched argument that will keep readers engaged and inspired.
Discussing subjects ranging from education and fundraising to business and family, the author shows that readers can choose to master their awareness, consume content that uplifts them, and uncover motivations that ignite their sense of purpose. Moreover, this emotional evolution comes not at the expense of success but through creating it—resulting in joy for both readers and their communities.
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