The books that shaped my life
Every issue, we ask prominent businessmen about the books that made them the people they are today. This month: Sunder Aaron, Senior Vice President and Business Head, Sony Pix.
Atlas Shrugged, Ayn Rand
Dagny Taggart, the female protagonist of this novel, has been an inspiration in sculpting my personal and professional life. I truly admire her attempts to keep her company afloat, her struggles to manage a transcontinental railroad amid the pressures and restrictions of a massive bureaucracy.
The Hero with a Thousand Faces, Dr Raymond A. Moody, Jr.
Joseph Campbell, the hero, receives a call to enter an unusual world of strange powers and events, and to be able to enter it, he must face tasks and trials. Having travelled extensively, I feel life is an endless journey through which one encounters various trials and tribulations that outline one’s qualities as he or she matures.
The Art of Dramatic Writing, Lajos Egri
For writers, this book is an eye-opener and a great learning experience since it offers not only brilliant techniques in writing but also explains the co-relation between writing and the fundamental aspects of human behaviour.
City of Thieves, David Benioff
David Benioff in his book, City of Thieves, vividly portrays a young man’s fight for survival against the brutality of the Nazis. A book of this kind is to be treasured as one is constantly looking for inspiration to face life’s myriad challenges.
The Razor’s Edge, Somerset Maugham
Having spent a good part of my life outside the country, I can easily relate to the character of Larry Darrell who came to India on a quest of self-discovery and realisation. Larry has so many admirable traits that often go unnoticed. His attempt and journey in seeking the absolute inspires me and others who have tried or continue to try.
