'Pilgrim' by Timothy Findley is a captivating tale of a man named Pilgrim who seems to be immortal or possibly insane, as he recounts his past lives where he encounters historical figures like Da Vinci and Saint Teresa. The story unfolds in a blend of history, psychology, and fiction, with a focus on Pilgrim's encounters with famous personalities and his time in an asylum under the care of Carl Jung. The narrative weaves between reality and imagination, leaving readers pondering about life, death, madness, and the search for meaning.

Findley's writing style in 'Pilgrim' is described as brilliant and creative, utilizing elements such as dreams, journals, and memories to craft a story that is both engaging and thought-provoking. offers a mix of philosophy, psychology, and historical fiction, creating a world where the boundaries between reality and fantasy blur, making it a compelling read for those who enjoy exploring deep themes and complex characters.

Characters:

The characters include a complex and intangible Pilgrim, a flawed Carl Jung, and interesting secondary characters who bring depth to the narrative.

Writing/Prose:

The writing style is characterized by engaging and imaginative prose that combines history, psychology, and fiction, often employing dreams and journal entries.

Plot/Storyline:

The plot centers on Pilgrim, a man who cannot die, and his experiences at a psychiatric clinic, intertwined with his past lives and his interactions with Carl Jung.

Setting:

The setting includes a psychiatric clinic in Switzerland, with historical references that span various significant events and figures.

Pacing:

The pacing varies, with some slower sections focusing on Jung's inner turmoil, resulting in a loss of momentum for some readers.

Inside the front doors of the Burghölzli Psychiatric Clinic in Zürich, a nurse named Dora Henkel and an orderly whose name was Kessler were waiting to greet a new patient and his companion. Their arri...

Notes:

Timothy Findley was a Canadian author known for his varied and intelligent writing.

'Pilgrim' was published in 1999 and explores themes of immortality and psychological treatment.

The main character, Pilgrim, is an Englishman who cannot die and has vivid memories of past lives.

Pilgrim is treated at the Burgholzli Clinic in Switzerland by Carl Jung, a prominent psychiatrist.

Jung is portrayed as a flawed character dealing with his own mental struggles.

The novel intertwines real historical figures like Leonardo da Vinci and St. Teresa of Avila with fictional elements.

The story blends history, psychology, and themes of madness.

Findley uses dreams and journal entries to create a vivid storytelling style.

The narrative raises philosophical questions about life, death, and the nature of reality.

Despite criticisms, many readers appreciate the creative structure and thought-provoking content of the book.

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

Content warnings include discussions of mental illness, depression, and suicide.

From The Publisher:

On April 17, 1912 - ironically, only two days after the sinking of the Titanic - a figure known only as Pilgrim tries to commit suicide by hanging himself from a tree. When he is found five hours later, his heart miraculously begins to beat again. Pilgrim, it seems, can never die. Escorted by his beloved friend, Lady Symbol Quartermaine, Pilgrim is admitted to the famous Burgholzu Psychiatrist Clinic In Zurichm, where he will begin a battle of psyche and soul with Carl Jung, the self-professed mystical scientist of the unconscious Slowly, Jung coaxes Pilgrim to tell his astonishing story - one that seemingly spans 4,000 years and includes such historical figures as Leonardo da Vinci and Henry James. But is Pilgrim delusional? Are these his memories merely dreams...or is his immortal existence truly a miracle.

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Pilgrim?

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Pilgrim

Timothy Findley

Characters:

Writing/Prose:

Plot/Storyline:

Setting:

Pacing:

Genres:

Tropes/Plot Devices:

Topics:

Notes:

Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings

From The Publisher:

What can you read after Pilgrim?

What can you read after
Pilgrim?