Wit by Margaret Edson

The play is a poignant exploration of the life of a brilliant and exacting English professor who is diagnosed with terminal ovarian cancer. As she undergoes aggressive and painful treatment, she reflects on her life and work, particularly her study of the metaphysical poets, with a focus on the intricacies of John Donne's Holy Sonnets. The narrative juxtaposes the complexities of human emotions with the clinical detachment of the medical profession, ultimately offering a meditation on mortality, the value of human connection, and the meaning of life when faced with the imminence of death. Through her illness, the protagonist confronts the irony and tragedy of her situation, using her wit to cope with her deteriorating condition and to question the significance of her scholarly achievements.

The 10606th greatest book of all time

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Total Points: 15

Since this book was first published in 1993, there is a penalty of 30.4%. The age adjusted score is 10.44.

This is to prevent newer books from reaching super high on the ranked list of the greatest books of all time. The greatest books should also stand the test of time.