When authors refer to other great works, people, and events, it’s usually not accidental. Put on your super-sleuth hat and figure out why.
Literary and Philosophical References
- Socrates (P.66): Ancient Greek philosopher; taught the wisest know they know nothing
- Buddha (P.255): Sage considered the founder of Buddhism
- Quasimodo (3.34): Hunchback from Victor Hugo's The Hunchback of Notre-Dame
- Albert Ellis (4.201): Psychologist who advocated a liberal attitude toward sex
- Robert Rimmer (4.201): Author who criticized monogamy
- Jacqueline Susann (4.201): Novelist whose work included graphic sex scenes
- Marquis de Sade (4.201): Libertine, advocate for freedom to engage in sexual sadism
- J.D. Salinger (7.121): 20th century U.S. novelist
- Chuang Tzu (7.122): Chinese philosopher from the 4th century BC.
- Lao Tzu (7.123): Chinese philosopher, author of Tao Te Ching, founder of Taoism
Historical References
- Michaelangelo (2.107): Italian, Renaissance-era sculptor, painter, poet, architect, engineer
- Alexander the Great (3.32): Macedonian conquerer from the 4th century BC.
- Bach (4.3): Prolific Baroque composer, 1685-1750.
- Reader's Digest (4.201): Very popular monthly magazine aimed at consumer audience
- “Dear Abby” (4.201): Syndicated advice column begun in the 1950s.
- Mahatma Gandhi (7.52): Hindi lawyer who led India to independence
- Milarepa (7.126): Tibetan yogi, circa 11th century CE.
Pop Culture References
- The Great Escape (2.2): 1963 film
- “Singin' in the Rain” (2.65): Famous song
- Debbie Reynolds (2.65): 20th century U.S. actress, singer, and dancer
- W.C. Fields (6.149): 20th century U.S. actor and comedian