One of the most influential works of this century The Myth of Sisyphus and Other Essays is a crucial exposition of existentialist thought. Influenced by works such as Don Juan and the novels of Kafka these essays begin with a meditation on suicide; the age old question- to be or not to be in a universe devoid of order or meaning. With lyric eloquence Albert Camus brilliantly posits a way out of despair reaffirming the value of personal existence and the possibility of life lived with dignity and authenticity.