Books matching: meditative writing style
33 result(s)
- #1
'A Box of Matches' by Nicholson Baker is a novel that delves into the minutiae of one person's daily life through reflections on morning rituals, family dynamics, and observations of mundane activities like starting a fire and washing dishes. The book captures the beauty of simplicity and human experiences, with a focus on small details that evoke a sense of nostalgia and reflection on the ordinary aspects of life.
The book is described as a quiet and introspective narrative that may seem uneventful on the surface, but is filled with poignant reflections and subtle humor that make the reader contemplate the small moments that shape our lives. The writing style is meditative and observant, drawing the reader into the narrator's world of domestic routines and personal reflections, creating an atmosphere that lingers long after the book is finished.
Good morning, it’s January and it’s 4:17 a.m., and I’m going to sit here in the dark. I’m in the living room in my blue bathrobe, with an armchair pulled up to the fireplace. There isn’t much in the w... - #2
"Gilead" by Marilynne Robinson is a contemplative and introspective story told through the perspective of an elderly preacher, Reverend John Ames, who is writing a letter to his young son as he nears the end of his life. The plot delves into themes of family dynamics, spirituality, forgiveness, and the passage of time in a small town setting. The writing style is described as slow-paced, meditative, and poetic, with a focus on philosophical musings and reflections on life's complexities.
I TOLD YOU LAST NIGHT THAT I MIGHT BE GONE sometime, and you said, Where, and I said, To be with the Good Lord, and you said, Why, and I said, Because I’m old, and you said, I don’t think you’re old. ... - #3
'Gift from the Sea' by Anne Morrow Lindbergh is a timeless book that delves into themes of simplicity, solitude, and self-reflection. The author beautifully explores the ebbs and flows of life through the metaphor of sea shells, offering spiritual insights and reflections on love, marriage, peace, and contentment. Lindbergh's writing style is meditative and reflective, inviting readers to slow down and be fully present as they journey through the pages of this book. The narrative resonates with readers across different stages of life, providing a source of comfort and wisdom that transcends time.
My mother published this book over fifty years ago, and I feel as if I have read it fifty times since then. I may not be exaggerating. Gift from the Sea first came out when I was ten years old, and th... - #4
'The Ghosts of Heaven' by Marcus Sedgwick is a unique novel consisting of four loosely connected stories set in different time periods - prehistory, medieval England, a hospital in the 20th century, and a future generation starship. The stories explore themes of madness, obsession, creation, and the concept of spirals, with each section presenting a different perspective on humanity's quest for knowledge and the consequences of seeking the unknown. The writing style varies from poetic and meditative to suspenseful and intense, showcasing Sedgwick's skill in weaving together narratives that delve into the human experience across time and space.
The book is praised for its methodical and intriguing storytelling, with readers appreciating the interconnectedness of the four stories and the theme of spirals that ties them together. Sedgwick's ability to create fully developed characters, chilling messages, and beautifully wrought settings in each quarter is highlighted, along with his exploration of human behavior and emotions from primitive times to the future. The novel invites readers to reflect on the impact of nature's laws on human behavior, the thirst for knowledge, and the dangers of knowing too much, making it a thought-provoking and immersive read.
His days, by comparison, are but a blink in time. Twelve hours is all he is allowed, twelve hours for waking, to do whatever work must be done, twelve hours every ten years. He has been woken twice so... - #5
Anita Brookner's 'Look at Me' follows the life of Frances Hinton, a quiet and unassuming young woman working in a medical library. After meeting the charismatic couple Nick and Alix Fraser, Frances is drawn into their social circle, seeking excitement and love. However, as she becomes more involved with the Frasers, Frances realizes the shallowness and cruelty beneath their glamorous facade. The novel delves into Frances' loneliness, her yearning for connection, and her journey towards self-discovery in a bleak and poignant narrative. Brookner's writing style intricately captures Frances' inner turmoil, her observations of those around her, and the quiet tragedy of a life unfulfilled.
Once a thing is known it can never be unknown. It can only be forgotten. And, in a way that bends time, so long as it is remembered, it will indicate the future. It is wiser, in every circumstance, to... - #6
"Wandering" by Hermann Hesse is a collection of prose, poetry, and watercolor sketches that captures the essence of the true wandering spirit. Hesse's writing style in this book is contemplative and meditative, reflecting on themes of wanderlust, love, nature, and the search for meaning. The book explores the idea of wandering as a way of life, where the journey itself is more important than the destination. Hesse's deep connection with nature and his observations during his time hiking through the Alps are reflected in the prose, creating a sense of clarity and simplicity in his storytelling.
Hesse's exploration of the concept of Home as a place within oneself rather than a physical location is a prevalent theme in the book. The author delves into the complexities of human emotions, the longing for belonging, and the acceptance of impermanence. Through poignant passages and reflections on life's transient nature, Hesse invites readers to embrace the idea of wandering not just physically, but also spiritually and emotionally, in search of inner peace and fulfillment.
- #7
'Passage to Juneau' by Jonathan Raban is a non-fiction book that follows the author's voyage from Seattle to Alaska, providing a thoughtful commentary on indigenous life, personal reflections, and a comparison with Vancouver's historic route. The book delves into the rugged geography of British Columbia, sailing experiences, and introspective depths, rather than focusing solely on a traditional seaman's yarn of stormy seas and nautical adventures. Raban's writing style mirrors the chaotic and reflective quality of the sea, leading readers through introspections about life, water, history, and literature.
- #8
'The Art of Mindful Living' by Thich Nhat Hanh is a tape series that serves as an excellent introduction to his work, covering all the major bases of Zen thinking and practice. The author concisely describes the path to mindful living with humor, wisdom, and practical suggestions. The content provides a strong reminder of important, simple ideas that are easy to forget, offering guidance on meditation and practical help for incorporating mindfulness into daily life.
The book also includes a basic but very useful guided meditation, teaching listeners how to be fully present in the moment. Thich Nhat Hanh's sense of humor shines through in this series, making mindfulness accessible for all and providing wisdom accompanied by practical advice for meditation. Overall, the book is described as a life-affirming CD with much wisdom and a great introduction to the practice of mindfulness.
Meditation for Fidgety Skeptics: A 10% Happier How-To Book by Dan Harris is a practical guide to meditation, focusing on providing tools and simplified approaches for beginners and skeptics. The book aims to make meditation more accessible and mainstream, emphasizing mindfulness as a path to patience, compassion, generosity, and happiness. Written in an easy-to-read and humorous style, the book helps readers navigate the practice of meditation in a secular and practical way, without delving too deep into spiritual traditions.
In 2004, I had a panic attack while delivering the news, live, on ABC’s Good Morning America. Being a masochist, I asked our research department to tell me exactly how many people were watching. They ...- #10
'The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success: A Practical Guide to the Fulfillment of Your Dreams' by Deepak Chopra explores seven fundamental laws that, when applied, can lead to success and fulfillment. Readers have described the book as a good introduction to spiritual development, offering profound insights in a concise and easily digestible format. The laws, such as the Law of Pure Potentiality, the Law of Giving and Receiving, and the Law of Dharma, are presented in a way that encourages introspection and personal growth. Despite some opinions mentioning a lack of compelling examples, many readers found the book to be a valuable resource for anyone on a journey towards success and self-discovery.
The writing style of Deepak Chopra in 'The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success' has been praised for its ability to expand readers' perspectives and offer practical advice for applying spiritual principles in daily life. is seen as a quick read that keeps readers engaged and encourages them to reflect on their own beliefs and actions. Overall, the book aims to guide individuals towards a deeper understanding of themselves and their connection to the universe, providing a roadmap for achieving personal success and fulfillment.
The first spiritual law of success is the Law of Pure Potentiality. This law is based on the fact that we are, in our essential state, pure consciousness. Pure consciousness is pure potentiality; it i...