Works of Love

A New Translation

By: SÂ¿ren Kierkegaard, Bruce H. Kirmmse (Translator)

Write A Review

Hardcover | 5 September 2025 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Hardcover
464 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
2.29 x 1.52 x 0.33

Hardcover

RRP $59.95

$45.75

24%OFF

or 4 interest-free payments of $11.44 with

In Stock and Ships next day

First published in 1847, Works of Love is among Soren Kierkegaard's most explicitly religious works. Intended to awaken rather than convince-to replicate "the stinging, impatient character of a 'gadfly,'" as translator Bruce H. Kirmmse writes-the book consists of a series of fifteen deliberations on love. Contrasting romantic love and love for one's friends with the selfless Christian love-agape-of the New Testament, Works of Love contends that the only way to purge self-interest from love is to love one's neighbor, who is "indeed unconditionally every person." Though always careful to distinguish his "deliberations" from clerical "sermons," Kierkegaard insisted that in order to grasp the full meaning of the work, one must hear it. Whereas other translations have obscured or disregarded the rhetorical aspect of the text, Kirmmse's translation preserves it-thus making the same request of its readers that Kierkegaard once made of his: to hear the argument by reading it aloud.

About the Authors

Soren Kierkegaard (1813-1855) was a Danish philosopher and theologian whose work has been widely recognized as foundational both to modern psychology and existentialism.

A professor emeritus at Connecticut College, Bruce H. Kirmmse has published several books and numerous articles on Kierkegaard and is general editor of Kierkegaard's Journals and Notebooks. He lives in Randolph, New Hampshire, and Copenhagen, Denmark.

Industry Reviews

"Bruce H. Kirmmse has produced an impressive translation. . . . This is not only an accomplishment that commands respect, but is also an occasion for plain delight. Kierkegaard is rejoicing in his grave." -- Joakim Garff, author of Soren Kierkegaard: A Biography

"Bruce H. Kirmmse conveys the vigor and lucidity of Kierkegaard's original text as it persuasively guides us to the paradoxical message of hope that emerges from the Dane's unequalled analysis of despair." -- George Pattison, author of Kierkegaard and the Quest for Unambiguous Life

Shipping

	Standard Shipping	Express Shipping
Metro postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Regional postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95
Rural postcodes:	$9.99	$14.95

Orders over $89.00 qualify for free shipping.

How to return your order

At Booktopia, we offer hassle-free returns in accordance with our returns policy. If you wish to return an item, please get in touch with Booktopia Customer Care.

Additional postage charges may be applicable.