Movements of Thought: Ludwig Wittgenstein's Diary, 1930–1932 and 1936–1937

Ludwig Wittgenstein's diary reveals his process of doing philosophy, including his relationship with Marguerite Respinger, dreams, philosophical colleagues, musicians, and authors, as well as his spiritual crisis in Norway in 1937. It is an honest and searing articulation of his attempts to believe and live what he finds in the Bible.

Format: Hardback
Length: 142 pages
Publication date: 04 January 2023
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield

While the published works of Ludwig Wittgenstein provide a glimpse into the final, coherent thoughts of this philosophical giant, Wittgenstein's diary offers a deeper insight into his philosophical process. It is only in his private writings that we fully witness Wittgenstein's philosophical practice unfold.

In particular, the diary entries from the 1930s reveal themselves as a first-person spiritual epic. Wittgenstein grapples with his relationship with Marguerite Respinger and struggles to find closure in its failure. He delves into his dreams, offering interpretations and insights. He reflects on his philosophical colleagues, Frank Ramsey and G.E. Moore. He also engages with musicians such as Beethoven, Bruckner, and Brahms, as well as authors like Kraus, Mann, Nietzsche, Dostoevsky, and Kierkegaard. Wittgenstein embarks on a journey of confession, sharing his thoughts with numerous friends and family members. He vividly recounts his spiritual crisis in Norway during the late winter of 1937, providing a raw and poignant account of his attempts to believe and live according to the teachings of the Bible.

What is remarkable is that, from a man who once advocated for silence regarding spiritual matters, we encounter here an honest and searing articulation of Wittgenstein's spiritual journey. This diary holds the potential to be one of the great spiritual autobiographies of the 20th century. For the first time, it is available in an affordable edition, accompanied by updated and expanded editorial notes to aid the reader in understanding Wittgenstein's numerous allusions. Additionally, a new Introduction by Ray Monk places the diary within the broader context of Wittgenstein's life, further enhancing our understanding of this remarkable philosopher.

Weight: 349g
Dimension: 223 x 148 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781538163665