I Like “At the Existentialist Cafe”
Hello, friends! This week’s edition of “Things I Like” is a halfway-through review of At the Existentialist Cafe by Sarah Bakewell. The book blends biography, history, and philosophy as it traces the development of existentialism. As I approach the halfway mark, we’re in the late 1940s/early 1950s, with Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Martin Heidegger wrestling with their roles in a post-WWII world.
Sartre Considers Freedom in Occupied France
One of the reasons I love existentialism is its insistence on the idea that we remain free, even when restricted. Bakewell describes how Sartre, de Beauvoir, and Camus tried to express themselves authentically under Nazi occupation. Sometimes, this was as small as being rude to German soldiers. More broadly, they worked to create philosophies that could pass German censorship. Their efforts varied in success, but the underlying message of choosing freedom, even in oppression, is powerful and resonates with how I approach my work—helping people find their voice in difficult circumstances.
Heidegger's Fails to Deal with Being a Nazi
Martin Heidegger was a significant figure in existentialism but also a literal Nazi for a time. In the mid-1930s, he wrote a university address praising Hitler, only to walk away from the party before WWII. Bakewell highlights how Heidegger later refused to disavow his past, believing that post-war disavowals were diluted and ineffective. This complex history raises questions about separating a person’s work from their actions—a challenge that often arises in therapy when we confront the imperfections of those who have influenced us.
Simone de Beauvoir Revolutionizes Feminism
Simone de Beauvoir’s contributions to existentialism and feminism are among the most impactful parts of At the Existentialist Cafe. She didn’t just participate in the movement; she reshaped it with her critiques of patriarchy and gender roles. Her work, especially The Second Sex, challenged societal norms and laid the groundwork for modern feminism.
de Beauvoir’s emphasis on choice and responsibility in defining one’s identity is particularly helpful. She argues that we aren’t born into predetermined roles—we become who we are through our choices. This philosophy aligns with the therapeutic process of helping clients recognize their agency and redefine themselves beyond societal constraints.
Conclusion
At the Existentialist Cafe offers more than just a history of existentialism. It provides practical insights into authenticity, moral responsibility, and the power of choice—essential themes in the therapeutic journey. Whether it’s finding freedom in difficult circumstances, grappling with flawed role models, or reclaiming identity, this book reminds us that philosophy is a tool for living well.
Thanks for joining me this week in “Things I Like.” I hope this reflection sparks some thoughts or maybe even a new addition to your reading list! Until next time, remember: know yourself, love yourself.
-J
