Marcel Proust

Marcel Proust was a writer and man of letters in early 20th century France. Author De Botton uses Proust's biography and philosophy to develop a methodology on how to live better. Proust himself was a fairly miserable man throughout much of his life. He was only attracted to writing and literature and various other occupations ended in failure. He was initially viewed as a "hanger-on," mooching off of his family's fortune in order to hobnob with aristocrats and attend parties.

Physically and psychologically, Proust could be described as somewhat of a wreck. He was a hypochondriac and was perpetually ill and allergic to a great many things. He had many fears, and could not stand noise. He had a low opinion of himself and was never happy in love or friendship. He was also a homosexual at a time when such behavior was not condoned, adding to...