The Pleasures of Life by Sir John Lubbock Book Review

Throughout our academic lifetime we will be expected to demonstrate mastery of our writing skills by writing different types of essays.  In the literary piece “The Pleasures of Life” by Sir John Lubbock, the writer demonstrates various characteristics of persuasive essay.  Whether it is our duty of happiness, view of the world, or mood, Lubbock builds his case using logic and sound reasoning.  He argues that the world would be better and brighter if our teachers would dwell on the Duty of Happiness as well as on the Happiness of Duty.   In this essay, I will identify the characteristics of an opinion piece Lubbock utilizes to present both sides of the argument.

Initially, Lubbock uses logic and sound reasoning to explain how the world would be better and brighter if we would be as cheerful as we can, embody happiness for ourselves, and contribute to the happiness of others. Whether or not it is our own mood or of those around us, the outlook of our day can be affected.  For example, he states that we all have felt the familiar sensation of a sunny day just by being surrounded by cheerful friends. Lubbock justifies this argument by reminding us that we have a choice; we can either “make this world either a palace or a prison.”

Furthermore, and most significantly he emphasizes his understanding that brooding in sorrow is certainly a “selfish satisfaction”. He identifies with our tendency to “yield to melancholy” or confine ourselves as “victims of fate.”  He comprehends the tremendous effort it takes to “be bright and cheerful” nevertheless we are able to tackle the “art of happiness” by serving as if we were someone else.

Consequently, Lubbock demonstrates mastery of “persuasive essay” writing.  Lubbock uses logic and reasoning to argue his case and even goes so far as to present his understanding of our need to “brood over grievances”. Whether it was the “Duty of Happiness” or “Happiness of Duty,” The writer illustrates that we have a choice in life on how we view and live our lives.