Consider the Lobster: And Other Essays

David Foster Wallace

December 1, 2005

Consider the Lobster: And Other Essays by David Foster Wallace is a masterful collection of essays exploring themes of human nature, politics, and morality. From the introduction of the titular essay, which considers the morality of boiling lobsters, to the wide-ranging discussions about everything from the behavior of presidential candidates to the nature of modern communication and celebrity culture, Wallace’s essays are thought-provoking and highly accessible.Throughout the book, Wallace engages readers in thoughtful dialogue about the dichotomies between the freedom of individual expression and the larger effect on society as a whole. His signature blend of wit and irony draw readers in as he covers topics as diverse as 9/11, the influence of media on popular culture, and the “democratization of celebrity.” Wallace’s mesmerizing use of language and ability to find meaning in the mundane make the essays both entertaining and profound. In addition, Wallace’s exploration of the effects of technology on communication is particularly affecting. Without shying away from the darker implications of technology, he examines the consequences of our reliance on devices and social media in communicating with each other, and how our online identities are shaped by the media we voluntarily expose ourselves to.In short, Consider the Lobster: And Other Essays by David Foster Wallace is a truly remarkable collection of essays, perfect not just for readers looking to reflect on our own individual values, but also for those interested in understanding the complex dynamics of our society at large. Through the perspective of Wallace, readers can’t help but to consider the impact of their own actions on the world around them.