In 'The Collected Works of Henri Bergson,' readers are presented with a comprehensive anthology of the seminal philosopher's most impactful essays. Ranging from his light-hearted yet incisive 'Laughter: An Essay on the Meaning of the Comic' to the profound explorations within 'Time and Free Will: An Essay on the Immediate Data of Consciousness' and 'Creative Evolution,' Bergson dissects the interplay between human perception and reality. Utilizing his signature blend of philosophical intuitionism and delicate prose, Bergson constructs a distinctive philosophical standpoint, significantly influencing both the existentialist and phenomenological movements. 'Matter and Memory' and 'Meaning of the War: Life & Matter in Conflict' further exhibit his intricate examination of the dualism between the tangible and the spiritual, while 'Dreams' offers a more introspective contemplation of subconscious narratives. Henri Bergson, a philosopher renowned for his exploration of time, memory, and consciousness, infuses his work with his rich academic background and the turbulent era he inhabits. Drawing upon his extensive knowledge in philosophy and the natural sciences, Bergson showcases his belief in élan vital, or vital force, as a primary source of life's evolution and creativity. His writing is imbued with a reaction to the mechanistic and materialist trends of his time, craving to reconcile scientific positivism with a more humanistic and intuitive understanding of life. This collection captures Bergson's philosophical evolution and the profound empathy he possessed for the human condition. Recommended for both students and aficionados of philosophy, 'The Collected Works of Henri Bergson' is a treasure trove of intellectual rigour and existential inquiry. These works challenge the reader to contemplate the deeper meanings of existence, freedom, and the structures of society. Bergson's eloquent dissection of complex philosophical principles makes this collection a critical resource for understanding the philosophical landscape of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and its lasting influence on contemporary thought.