This book should reside next to your Bible, Sun Tzu's "The Art of War", and Macchiavelli's "The Prince". Like 'War' and 'Prince' (and some parts of the Bible), Gracian's thoughts can seem a bit too tough, at times. Don't be put off by that. Like all operating manuals, not all of it fits every person's situation. What you will find is a well-written set of directions, some of which you will want to apply in your life. I think you will find it is filled with very useful insights into the humans that surround you, and, perhaps, even into yourself. My advice? Buy it and read it. You can ignore anything that offends you.