Audiobook Sample
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- Title: Memory: How to Develop, Train and Use It
- Author: William Walker Atkinson
- Narrator: Roger Melin
- Length: 04:38:01
- Version: Abridged
- Release Date: 01/01/2016
- Publisher: LibriVox
- Genre: Non-Fiction, Psychology
- ISBN13: SABLIB9786525
As a literature professor with a deep fascination for the intersection of narrative and memory, I was immediately drawn to William Walker Atkinson’s ‘Memory: How to Develop, Train and Use It.’ This audiobook, narrated by Roger Melin, offers a compelling journey into the mechanics of memory, blending early 20th-century psychological insights with practical self-help advice. Through a cultural lens, I found myself reflecting on how memory shapes our understanding of literature and personal history.
The book’s exploration of attention, association, and visualization resonated deeply with my academic experiences. During my year as a visiting professor in Tokyo, I discovered Haruki Murakami’s works, particularly ‘Kafka on the Shore.’ Reading it in both English and Japanese revealed how language influences narrative perception. Atkinson’s emphasis on creating vivid mental images aligns with my realization that the magical realism elements in Murakami’s work felt more natural in Japanese, while the Western literary references resonated differently in English.
Roger Melin’s narration enhances Atkinson’s text with a clear, engaging tone that maintains a scholarly yet accessible demeanor. His pacing allows listeners to absorb the intricate details of memory techniques without feeling overwhelmed. The audio quality is crisp, ensuring that every word is heard distinctly, which is crucial for a book that demands focused attention.
Atkinson’s principles of repetition and review reminded me of a semester-long seminar at Berkeley where we explored different storytelling mediums. Comparing the traditional book, ebook, and audiobook versions of ‘Cloud Atlas’ led to fascinating discussions about how format influences narrative structure and reader engagement. Atkinson’s practical applications of memory techniques, such as remembering names and faces, echo these insights, emphasizing the importance of context in retaining information.
While the book’s reliance on anecdotal evidence may feel dated to some modern readers, its core principles remain relevant. The New Thought philosophy underpinning Atkinson’s work, with its emphasis on mental discipline and positive thinking, continues to influence contemporary self-help literature. However, readers seeking a more scientifically rigorous approach might find Joshua Foer’s ‘Moonwalking with Einstein’ a complementary read.
In conclusion, ‘Memory: How to Develop, Train and Use It’ is a valuable resource for anyone looking to enhance their cognitive abilities. Its blend of historical context, practical advice, and philosophical insights makes it a timeless guide. I recommend this audiobook to students, professionals, and lifelong learners who wish to unlock the full potential of their memory. With thoughtful narration and accessible content, it is a worthy addition to any personal development library.
With literary appreciation and cognitive curiosity,
Prof. Emily Chen
