It is time! It is the highest time! Today, at noontide on the summer solstice, I am thrilled to announce that I have published an extraordinary illustrated edition of Thus Spake Zarathustra, a philosophical novel by German philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche. Nietzsche’s philosophy is among the most provocative in history. He explored a wide range of ideas across numerous works. Notable examples include Beyond Good and Evil, The Genealogy of Morals, Twilight of the Idols, and The Gay Science. But, in my estimation, Thus Spake Zarathustra stands out as Nietzsche’s masterpiece. Thus Spake Zarathustra Nietzsche wrote the original text of Thus Spake Zarathustra in parts, between 1883 and 1885. It wraps his core ideas into an epic story about a prophet, Zarathustra, who descends from mountain solitude to commune with humanity. Through a series of strange encounters, mixed with humorous dialog and poignant discourse, Zarathustra leads us on a journey of transformation. The story consists of four parts. In part one, Zarathustra explores the integration of body and spirit, and the rejection of traditional moral values. He criticizes life-denying philosophies, and discusses the importance of embracing joys and passions. He also introduces the concept of the Ubermensch, a higher form of humanity or superhumanity. And he explores the relationship between friendship, diverse goals, and love for neighbors. In part two, Zarathustra learns from a child about self-reflection, criticizes religious manipulation, and warns against mediocrity. He celebrates the beauty of the night, contemplates mortality, criticizes shallow culture, praises the power of poetry, and ponders the death of God and redemption. He also encourages individuals to strive for greatness and authenticity. In part three, Zarathustra encounters a disillusioned wanderer, and reflects on joy and inner peace. He passes by some, while he confronts others, including apostates and the three evils. He discusses the spirit of gravity, advocates for new values, celebrates resilience and the longing for greatness, and sings a joyful dance-song. In the last part, Zarathustra responds to a cry of distress from “higher” humanity. When he finally meets them, they converse about compassion, power, superficiality, solitude, imperfection, detachment, self-integration, suffering, scientific limitations, love, awakening, joy, and belief. Together, they institute a new festival. And then, again as before in eternal recurrence, they part ways. Influence of Zarathustra Thus Spake Zarathustra has had a profound influence on the world. The book has contributed to the development of existentialism and concepts of superhumanity. And it has generated an enduring influence on philosophy, literature, and culture – particularly religion. Nietzsche’s work, including Thus Spake Zarathustra, played a crucial role in the development of existentialist philosophy. His ideas challenge traditional notions of morality and traditional conceptions of the human condition. His exploration of the individual struggle for meaning influenced existentialist thinkers such as Jean-Paul Sartre and Albert Camus. A prominent theme in Thus Spake Zarathustra is the concept of the ubermensch. Sometimes translated as “overman” or “superman,” the ubermensch represents people who transcend traditional morality and embrace a life-affirming philosophy. This idea has inspired thinkers and artists in various disciplines, including transhumanism and posthumanism. Thus Spake Zarathustra is not only a philosophical work but also a literary masterpiece. Nietzsche’s use of poetic language, metaphors, and allegories has influenced generations of writers, poets, and artists. His writing style, characterized by powerful imagery and unconventional structure, continues to inspire and captivate readers. Even beyond philosophy and literature, Thus Spake Zarathustra has had a broad cultural impact. Through the journey of Zarathustra, Nietzsche reimagi ...