I love Barzun. My sister introduced me to his The Dawn of Decadence on a summer vacation and I have been hooked since. That book became the textbook for my 11th grade Omnibus class. This book was originally written in 1948. He added a new forward and chapter in 1960. As a cultural historian he understands the philosophy of an age. He helped me understand what is meant by romanticism and its influence on modern times. He also noted trends which proven right on. While this book will not be for everyone but if you are interested in history and how we got where we are today this book will have things that make you think. ( )