Is rarely discussed but equally important: being well-read. This not only applies to keeping up to date in a man's chosen field but also reading for pleasure. We start the list with 10 essential books for the Arbiters gentleman.
The bookshelf often reveals a contrasting narrative. Cluttered with ephemeral thrillers and mundane autobiographies, it lacks the timeless elegance found elsewhere in his domain. An Arbiters library, much like his sartorial choices, should be a sanctuary of sophistication and intellect. This 'capsule library' isn't merely about occupying space — it's about enriching the mind and soul. Here, carefully chosen volumes should not just entertain but enlighten, mirroring the enduring style and substance of their owner.
The Count of Monte Cristo, Alexandre Dumas
In my opinion, the best book ever written. You will not want to put this book down even at 1,400+ pages. You’ll see the best and worst sides of a brilliant, cunning man. From rags to riches and back again, it’ll leave you wanting another 1,000 pages.
The Great Gatsby, F. Scott Fitzgerald
Raucous, uninhibited parties; decadence and indulgence of the most glamorous varieties; mint juleps, classic cars and suavely elegant suits doing the rounds — it’s a gentlemanly work of literature in every possible sense, with Jay Gatbsy maintaining his status as one of the most famous literary gentlemen of all time.
A Gentleman in Moscow, Amor Towles
Central character Count Alexander Rostov is placed, indefinitely, under house arrest at Moscow’s Hotel Metropol in 1922. If you’re thinking that being stuck in a luxury hotel wouldn’t be too bad, we’ll hasten to add that Rostov was only permitted to stay in an attic room (though he does have full run of the hotel, so it’s not as if he’s had a positive lateral flow test). It’s moving, poignant and utterly unforgettable.
Suite 200, Giorgio Teruzzi
In Suite 200, presented here with an original foreword by the author, Giorgio Terruzzi takes us on the inside of life of one of the most popular drivers ever, concentrating it in one night: the delicate and unusual portrait of a champion, but also a man whose death has left a huge void.
The Talented Mr. Ripley, Patricia Highsmith
Another enduringly famous story in which the elegant, debonair style has not gone unnoticed by us; but this book offers more than aspirational style and grooming tips. Ripley is one of the most famous anti-heroes ever written; and we all know the antics of the anti-heroes are far more fun to read about than those of their straight-laced, dutiful counterparts. Join Ripley on his pursuit of the hedonistic good life: at any possible cause.
The Odyssey, Homer
The epic journey is a theme close to the essence of manhood, and there is no journey more epic or wrought with trials, revenge, destitution and perseverance than Odysseus’ galumph across the ancient Mediterranean.
Shakespeare's Sonnets
Including this collection of 154 poems in your capsule library will show an important appreciation of the artistic over name-dropping a bigger title. An abundance of drama, metaphors and an insight into Shakespeare’s personal life give his sonnets an undeniable edge.
The old man and the sea, Hernest Hemingway
Hemingway most famous book of all timeIt’s timeless, poignant and utterly, wholeheartedly unique — and (needless to say) it’s set by the sea, so it’s just the thing to read at any of these seaside hotels.
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