What you are reading
We label classical retellings, philosophical metaphors, and original fiction separately. Niko and Mote are original fictional characters. Their adventures are not rediscovered ancient tales. Modern applications and exercises are our interpretations, not words placed in a philosopher’s mouth.
The first collection
Socrates
Plato · Apology · 20e–23b. Benjamin Jowett translation.
Epictetus
Epictetus · Enchiridion · section 1. Thomas Wentworth Higginson translation; ancient text only.
Laozi
Tao Te Ching · chapter 8. James Legge translation; traditionally attributed to Laozi.
Marcus Aurelius
Meditations · the morning reflection on cooperation. Meric Casaubon translation; Book I, section XV in this edition (commonly numbered 2.1).
Old ideas, careful editions
The linked source editions are catalogued as public domain in the United States by their digital library. Our concise retellings are newly written; we do not reproduce modern commercial translations, introductions, illustrations, or recordings. Copyright status varies by country, and a free-to-read website is not automatically permission to reuse everything on it.
These source links identify research materials, not an endorsement or affiliation. Original Wonders to Keep stories and artwork are not presented as public-domain assets. For reuse requests, contact us.
Philosophy is an invitation, not a laboratory result
Metaphors, spiritual perspectives, and thought experiments are not treated as established science. A brief lesson cannot represent every debate around a text. We include context and encourage reading beyond our interpretation.
What is made with AI?
The visual world, including character references and concept artwork, was created with AI assistance. The animated film is still in development. We do not label concept art as finished footage or use invented historical portraits as documentary evidence.
Corrections are part of curiosity
If a source, translation, or interpretation needs correction, please write to hello@wonderstokeep.com with the page and relevant evidence. Our aim is to make ideas understandable without making certainty up.