'The Creative Act' by Rick Rubin is primarily centered around the philosophy of creativity and the process of being an artist, making it a guide for those looking to enhance their artistic endeavors. In contrast, 'After the Quake' by Haruki Murakami is a collection of stories that delve into the human experience through surreal and fantastical narratives. Therefore, if your interest lies in understanding the nature of creativity, 'The Creative Act' would be more relevant, while 'After the Quake' offers a literary exploration of human emotions and experiences.

'The Creative Act' presents a perspective on human nature through the lens of creativity and self-discovery, emphasizing how being an artist can lead to a deeper understanding of oneself. On the other hand, 'After the Quake' explores human nature through a series of surreal stories that highlight the complexities and absurdities of life, often blending the ordinary with the extraordinary. Thus, while both books touch on aspects of human nature, they do so from distinct angles—one through artistic expression and the other through narrative fiction.

'The Creative Act' by Rick Rubin is a book that explores the essence of creativity and being. Initially intended to be a guide on how to create great works of art, it evolved into a broader examination of how to live a creative life. The book delves into the philosophical aspects of creativity, providing insights and reflections on how to harness one's inner creative potential.

Rick Rubin is a renowned music producer and co-founder of Def Jam Recordings. He has worked with a wide array of artists across various genres, including Johnny Cash, Beastie Boys, and Red Hot Chili Peppers. Known for his minimalist production style and profound influence on the music industry, Rubin has also ventured into writing, with 'The Creative Act' being one of his notable works.

'The Creative Act' touches on several key themes, including the nature of creativity, the importance of mindfulness, and the process of artistic expression. Rick Rubin emphasizes the significance of being present and open to inspiration, as well as the value of persistence and authenticity in the creative journey.

As of now, there are no user-generated pros and cons for 'The Creative Act'. However, readers may appreciate its deep philosophical insights and practical advice on creativity. Some may find its abstract nature challenging, depending on their expectations and familiarity with Rubin's style.

'After the Quake' is a collection of six short stories by Haruki Murakami. The stories revolve around characters dealing with the aftermath of the Kobe earthquake. An electronics salesman who has been deserted by his wife agrees to deliver an enigmatic package; a man who believes he is the son of God pursues a stranger who may be his human father; and a mild-mannered collection agent receives a visit from a giant talking frog who enlists his help in saving Tokyo from destruction. These stories explore the deep and mysterious intersection of the human and the inhuman.

'After the Quake' is authored by Haruki Murakami, a renowned Japanese writer known for his unique blend of surrealism, magical realism, and contemporary themes. He is one of the most visionary writers at work today.

The main themes in 'After the Quake' include human vulnerability, the impact of natural disasters, existentialism, and the intersection between the human and the inhuman. Murakami explores how these events shape the characters' lives and their perceptions of reality.

'After the Quake' belongs to the genres of literary fiction and magical realism. The stories often contain surreal and fantastical elements that blur the lines between reality and imagination.