"The Power of the Aphorism"

"The Power of the Aphorism"
with James Geary

Summary
ˈafərɪz(ə)m/
(n) A general truth, or astute observation expressed with in a concise, pithy, witty manner. 

Aphorisms are literature’s hand luggage. Light and compact, they contain everything you need to get through a rough day at the office or a dark night of the soul. In this lively, interactive talk, James Geary, author of The World in A Phrase: A Brief History of the Aphorism, takes you on an entertaining tour through the wisest and wittiest sayings in the world.

Starting in ancient China and ending with contemporary meme-makers and street artists, the talk (and the book) tells the story of the short, witty, philosophical sayings known as aphorisms through biographical sketches of some of its greatest practitioners, from the Buddha, Nietzsche, and George Eliot to James Baldwin, Audre Lorde, and David Byrne. The talk explores the aphorism in the age of social media and shows why these short sentences are the ultimate deep dives in an era when TL;DR has become a cultural catchphrase. This is a talk for lovers of words and seekers of wisdom. Come prepared to juggle words, ideas — and actual juggling balls!

Bio
James Geary, an adjunct lecturer in public policy at the Harvard Kennedy School, is the author of Wit's End: What Wit Is, How It Works, and Why We Need It, I Is an Other: The Secret Life of Metaphor and How It Shapes the Way We See the World, and Geary's Guide to the World's Great Aphorists, among other books. He likes to juggle.

Venue:
Old Queen's Head
44 Essex Rd. 
N1 8LN

Event Running Time:
Doors: 7pm
Introduction: 7:25pm
Lecture: 7:30pm
Q&A: 8:20pm



Food:
If you plan on eating at the venue, we recommend arriving as early as possible so the kitchen can get your order out before the talk starts.

FAQ

What is Pints of Knowledge?

Pints of Knowledge is a series of public talks where experts, researchers, and big thinkers share fascinating ideas all in the relaxed setting of a pub. We bring brilliant minds and curious audiences together over a pint, covering topics from science and politics to history, art, and beyond.

What happens at Pints of Knowledge?

At each Pints of Knowledge event, you’ll hear engaging talks (about 35-40 minutes) from expert speakers on fascinating topics — followed by audience Q&A. The vibe is informal and social, set in a pub where you can grab a drink, meet interesting people, and enjoy big ideas in a relaxed setting.

What if I don't drink alcohol?

No problem at all! Pints of Knowledge is all about the ideas and the community, not the drinks. You’re welcome to enjoy a soft drink, coffee, or whatever you prefer. The focus is on creating a relaxed, social atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable

Can I attend without a ticket?

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event. With our limited capacity at each venue we can't let people in without a ticket.

Is there food available?

Yes, there is always the option to purchase food at our events.

Can I get my ticket refunded?

We issue full ticket refunds if you have requested 7 days before the event. Any requests after will be at the discretion of the event organiser.