From Strength to Strength: Finding Success, Happiness, and Deep Purpose in the Second Half of Life

Choose a public figure like Charles Darwin (one not discussed in the book) who accomplished something important early in life and then was unable to replicate that success later and became disillusioned. Describe each stage of this person’s life, explaining how it fits the model of decline that Brooks lays out in his book.

Choose another public figure like Johann Sebastian Bach (one not discussed in the book) who accomplished something important early in life and then shifted to a teaching or mentoring role, finding contentment well into old age. Describe each stage of this person’s life, explaining how it fits the model of the second curve that Brooks lays out.

Brooks talks about the “bucket list” phenomenon in American society, which is based on accumulating things and experiences. What societal, economic, and/or political structure encourages this way of thinking? Provide concrete examples.