If I had to describe how I felt after reading this masterpiece in one word, I would say ‘inspired.’ This book made me excited to turn the page in the same youthful manner I once had toward reading and made me reflect on how I chose to live my life. In only 176 short pages, N.H. Kleinbaum invests the reader so deeply into the lives of the boys involved in Dead Poets Society that he completely shifts the reader’s perspective on the meaning of being alive.
Set in 1959 at the prestigious yet conservative Welton Academy, Dead Poets Society follows a group of seven young men whose lives are transformed by their eccentric English teacher, Mr. Keating. Initially bound by the strict expectations of their school and families, the boys find themselves inspired and challenged by Mr. Keating’s unconventional teaching methods, which include ripping pages out of textbooks, standing on desks, and analyzing poetry in ways that feel relevant to real life. Mr Keating encourages the boys to embody the Latin phrase carpe diem — “seize the day” — urging them to think independently and question normality. Through this guidance, he plants a seed of courage in the boys, allowing them to embrace their passions and dreams and defy the rigid limitations their families and society impose.
The most memorable aspect of the novel is its exploration of what makes life meaningful. Early in the book, Mr. Keating tells the boys, “We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering, these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for.”
This quote captures the essence of Mr. Keating’s philosophy: while practical pursuits are essential, the deeper purpose of life lies in passion, beauty, and emotional experience. Immersed in the book, I felt inspired to start living my life to the fullest. Kleinbaum effectively illustrates the importance of raw emotion in life and prompts readers to reflect on what they believe makes life worthwhile.
Dead Poets Society—a secret club the boys revive in an old cave—becomes a sanctuary to share their passions and explore their humanity. Each boy metamorphosizes beautifully throughout the novel. The teaching of Mr. Keating transfers into the boys’ lives, encouraging each boy to become a better student and a more thoughtful, passionate individual. The novel’s deep and powerful messages resonate long after the final page.
Ultimately, Kleinbaum’s Dead Poets Society inspired me to reevaluate the values that drive my life and question how often I allow myself to pursue life’s pleasures. More than just an enjoyable story, it’s a call to carpe diem, embrace your passion, and live life to the fullest. In a world riddled with cynicism, please take a break and read this inspiring novel. It is a truly unforgettable read.