On Loneliness

How to overcome isolation and enjoy solitude

The School of Life, Julia Hawkins (Photographer)

$39.99

Hardback

Forthcoming
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English

Affirm Press
28 October 2025

Communication studies; Psychology; Social, group or collective psychology; Psychology: emotions; Coping with personal problems; Popular psychology

It’s easy to feel that we are alone in feeling alone. Not only do we suffer, but we also destroy our self-confidence with repeated convictions that we are the only ones who are so confused and at sea, the only ones without a partner and who will be alone (again) on Saturday night.

This transformative book examines loneliness through fifty heartfelt interviews and captivating portraits by the talented photographer Julia Hawkins. We hear from a diverse array of individuals whose lives have been shaped by isolation – those who feel invisible, misunderstood and alienated, as well as those who have found unexpected paths to understanding and connection.

We are left feeling enlightened and consoled that we are not unique in our solitude; indeed, it’s the most universal of emotions. And so, we have every reason to hold out a hand to our similarly complicated, kind and lonely neighbours.

This is a book for anyone who has ever felt alone – that is, for anyone who has ever been human.

By: The School of Life
Photographs by: Julia Hawkins (Photographer)
Imprint: Affirm Press
Country of Publication: United Kingdom
Dimensions: Height: 197mm, Width: 145mm,
ISBN: 9781916753211
ISBN 10: 1916753213
Pages: 128
Publication Date: 28 October 2025
Audience: General/trade , ELT Advanced
Format: Hardback
Publisher's Status: Forthcoming

The School of Life is devoted to developing emotional intelligence. It addresses issues such as how to find fulfilling work, how to master the art of relationships, how to understand one's past, how to achieve calm, and how better to understand and - where necessary - change the world. These ideas are delivered through a range of channels: from videos, books, and products - to classes, events, and one-to-one therapy sessions.The School of Life Press brings together the thinking and ideas of the School of Life creative team under the direction of series editor, Alain de Botton. Their books share a coherent, curated message that speaks with one voice: calm, reassuring, and sane.