This book examines the role and the meaning of collecting in the fiction of Henry James. Emerging as a refined consumerist practice at the end of the nineteenth century, collecting not only set new rules for appreciating art, but also helped to shape the aesthetic tenets of major literary movements such as naturalism and aestheticism. Although he befriended some of the greatest collectors of the age, in his narrative works James maintained a sceptical, if not openly critical, position towards collecting and its effects on appreciation. Likewise, he became increasingly reluctant to follow the fashionable trend of classifying and displaying art objects in the literary text, resorting to more complex forms of representation. Drawing from classic and contemporary aesthetics, as well as from sociology and material culture, this book fills a gap in Jamesian criticism, explaining how and why James's aversion towards collecting was central to the development of his fiction from the beginning of his career to the so-called major phase.

"Explores the role of private art collections in the cultural, social, and political life of early eighteenth-century Paris. Examines how two principal groups of collectors, each associated with a different political faction, amassed different types of treasures and used them to establish social identities and compete for distinction"--Provided by publisher.

"Hosts of all kinds, this is a must-read!" --Chris Anderson, owner and curator of TED From the host of the New York Times podcast Together Apart, an exciting new approach to how we gather that will transform the ways we spend our time together—at home, at work, in our communities, and beyond. In The Art of Gathering, Priya Parker argues that the gatherings in our lives are lackluster and unproductive--which they don't have to be. We rely too much on routine and the conventions of gatherings when we should focus on distinctiveness and the people involved. At a time when coming together is more important than ever, Parker sets forth a human-centered approach to gathering that will help everyone create meaningful, memorable experiences, large and small, for work and for play. Drawing on her expertise as a facilitator of high-powered gatherings around the world, Parker takes us inside events of all kinds to show what works, what doesn't, and why. She investigates a wide array of gatherings--conferences, meetings, a courtroom, a flash-mob party, an Arab-Israeli summer camp--and explains how simple, specific changes can invigorate any group experience. The result is a book that's both journey and guide, full of exciting ideas with real-world applications. The Art of Gathering will forever alter the way you look at your next meeting, industry conference, dinner party, and backyard barbecue--and how you host and attend them.

Teasing Tidbits From A Collection of Poetry from the Soul Book ID # 57244 In these stress filled times why not “release the restraints of your imagination...allow it to run wild as we venture into “A Quiet Oasis” on page 24. Uh huh, “I thought I was in control, had the power in my hands, indubitably”! Hah! My reckoning was beckoning. Have a glance over “A Silly Saga” on page 31. For those that have heard of an old adage about shedding tears internally, perhaps “A Glimpse into...Her Tears” on page 50 will provide insight into a different perspective. If you are of the opinion that accomplishments are only measured by greatness, think again because “Surging...ever forward, Reaching...for the sky”, maybe “It’s the Little Things” on page 95 will provide a twitch to your thinking. In a quandary as to “where you may fit “in the general scheme of things scan over “Reined in mental rambling (10) on page 161. News flash! You are richer than you know! Turn to “Richer than Midas” on page 224 for a little insight to my thinking. Hey, lighten up and brighten up; “Yeah go ahead be bold! You know you want to...and I know you can! Let the you lying within”, oops I nearly neglected to tell you “The Ebullience and Essence of You” on page 263 is waiting to be read.

Leanna Burns, who writes about the soul and the ?letting go? process, is at it again. Only this time, it is not about letting go of the weight (?From A to Z: Feed Your Soul and Lose the Weight?), nor is it about letting go of society's mythical standard of physical beauty (?Soul Beautiful, Naturally). ?Living the Soul Dolce Vita? is about letting go of your ?stuff? -- the stuff that gets in the way of soul communication, acknowledgment and recognition. This book is not just about having a garage sale and releasing a few household items that no longer interest you. It is about getting interested in your soul, and making room for it in your crowded and busy life. When your soul defines who you are versus the trappings of your life doing so, then you will be truly ?Living the Soul Dolce Vita.?

If you're looking to explore a new hobby every day and unlock your creative potential, then HowExpert Guide to 365 Popular Hobbies is your ultimate resource. Welcome to a year-long adventure filled with creativity, discovery, and growth. This guide is your gateway to mastering a diverse range of hobbies, organized from A to Z and tailored to fit every month. Whether you’re seeking to ignite your creativity, improve DIY skills, connect with nature, or find a new passion, this book offers endless inspiration and practical tips to enrich your life daily. Inside this book, you'll find: - Introduction: The Joy of Hobbies – Discover how hobbies can enrich your life, reduce stress, and spark joy. Use this guide to explore new passions daily or focus on specific interests. - January: Arts and Crafts – Start your year with creativity by diving into hobbies like painting, knitting, and wood carving. Each day introduces a new craft to let your artistic side shine. - February: Building and DIY – Channel your inner handyman or handywoman with projects ranging from carpentry to gardening. Perfect for anyone who loves to build, fix, or create with their hands. - March: Collecting – Explore the fascinating world of collecting, from antiques to rare books and coins. Learn the ins and outs of starting, maintaining, and expanding your collection. - April: Food and Drink – Satisfy your culinary curiosity by mastering the art of baking, brewing, and gourmet cooking. This chapter is a feast for your taste buds, with a new food-related hobby daily. - May: Games and Entertainment – Unleash your inner gamer with a month of board games, video games, and other forms of entertainment. Whether you’re into strategy or action, there’s something for every gamer. - June: Music and Performing Arts – Harmonize your love for music and performing arts by exploring instruments, singing, and acting. Each hobby helps you express yourself through sound and movement. - July: Nature and Outdoors – Embrace the outdoors with hobbies like hiking, birdwatching, and gardening. Perfect for nature lovers and adventurers, these activities connect you with the natural world. - August: Personal Development – Focus on self-improvement with hobbies that nurture your mind and soul, from journaling to meditation. This chapter is about building better habits, enhancing well-being, and fostering personal growth. - September: Science and Technology – Dive into science with hobbies ranging from robotics to astronomy. Ideal for curious minds, this chapter expands your understanding through hands-on experiments and tech projects. - October: Sports and Fitness – Get moving with a variety of physical activities that promote fitness and fun. Whether you’re into yoga, weightlifting, or extreme sports, this chapter keeps you active, energized, and healthy. - November: Travel and Exploration – Feed your wanderlust with hobbies that encourage exploration, from camping to cultural tours. This chapter is your passport to adventure, offering new ways to discover the world. - December: Writing and Literature – Cap off the year by indulging in the written word. Whether writing your memoirs or crafting fiction, these literary hobbies inspire you to unleash your creativity and reflect on your experiences. - Conclusion: Reflecting on Your Year of Hobbies – Reflect on your journey with tips on exploring new activities, embracing lifelong learning, and finding new inspirations. - Appendices – Delve into resources, journals, and community connections to keep your hobby pursuits thriving and ensure your passion for learning never fades. Whether you're a seasoned hobbyist or just starting out, HowExpert Guide to 365 Popular Hobbies is your go-to source for daily inspiration and growth. Buy the book today and embark on a year-long adventure of discovery, creativity, and fun! HowExpert publishes how-to guides on all topics from A to Z.

Every organization has something that works right-things that give it life when it is vital, effective, and successful. Appreciative Inquiry begins by identifying this positive core and connecting organizational visions, plans, and structures to it in ways that heighten energy and inspire action for change. The Appreciative Inquiry Handbook contains everything needed to launch any kind of AI initiative offering a wealth of practical materials-project plans, interview guides, topic samples, case clippings, worksheets, overheads and more.