Books matching: poetic, reflective, meditative writing
11 result(s)
- #1
Save:"The Cloister Walk" by Kathleen Norris is a collection of essays that offer a deep dive into monastic life and spirituality, as experienced by the author from a Protestant perspective. Norris shares her reflections on daily life in a Benedictine monastery, exploring themes of ritual, prayer, and simplicity. Through her contemplations on liturgical time, the relevance of Benedictine spirituality in the modern world, and the impact of monastic practices on spiritual reflection, Norris crafts a narrative that intertwines memoir with meditation, creating a unique blend of personal experience and theological exploration.
“The Cloister Walk is a new opportunity to discover a remarkable writer with a huge, wise heart. . . . Norris resonates deeply for a lot of people: She’s one of those writers who demands to be handed ... - #2
Save:"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.
'The Basic Works of Aristotle' seems to be a comprehensive compilation of Aristotle's writings, covering various topics such as ethics, politics, metaphysics, and rhetoric. The translation of the text is noted to be moderate, with some opinions mentioning the presence of Latinisms and archaisms, making it a tough read for some readers. is described as a dense collection of Aristotle's works, lacking in structure and organization, which can make it challenging to navigate and find specific writings.
The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard is a mesmerizing exploration of space, both physical and psychological, that invites readers to delve into the realms of imagination and introspection. Through a blend of philosophy and poetry, Bachelard delves into the essence of safe places like the house, the drawer, and the shell, offering a contemplative rather than analytical perspective on how spaces can evoke profound emotional and psychological responses. The book is described as a sustained reverie that inspires creativity and introspection, challenging readers to see the world around them in a new light.
- #5
Save:The play 'The Invention of Love' by Tom Stoppard is a rich and complex exploration of the life of poet A.E. Housman, interwoven with themes of classical literature, academia, memory, and homosexuality. The non-linear narrative follows Housman after his death, reflecting on his life and unrequited love for an Oxford friend. Stoppard's writing style is eloquent, amusing, and filled with allusions to classical texts and historical figures, creating a poignant and nostalgic atmosphere.
AEHNo fear of that. The jackals are another matter. One used to say, ‘After I’m dead’. The consolation is not as complete as one had supposed. There – the painter is belayed. I heard Ruskin lecture in... - #6
Save:The Deal of a Lifetime by Fredrik Backman is a poignant novella that delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The story unfolds like a heartfelt letter from a father to his son on Christmas Eve, revealing a shocking confession of a life-altering decision. Backman's writing style is described as deeply emotional, profound, and thought-provoking, capturing the complexity of human relationships and the weight of difficult choices. Through a series of unexpected twists and turns, the novella explores the themes of forgiveness, self-reflection, and the true meaning of life.
It’s Christmas Eve, and by the time you wake up the snow will probably have melted. Snow never lasts very long in Helsingborg. It’s the only place I know where the wind comes at an angle from below, l... - #7
Save:'Alone' by Christophe Chaboute is a graphic novel that tells the story of a man living alone in a lighthouse, experiencing the outside world through limited knowledge and boundless imagination. The protagonist's journey of solitude and perception is beautifully portrayed through stunning black and white illustrations, capturing the essence of loneliness, imagination, and human connection. The narrative is a mix of captivating imagery, detailed storytelling, and evocative emotions that keep readers engaged and immersed in the protagonist's solitary world.
Chaboute's writing style in 'Alone' is described as rich, luscious, and cinematic, with a visual storytelling approach that is enthralling and thought-provoking. balances moments of brutality with poetic reflections, offering a narrative that is both brutal and humane, with a touch of noir style that enhances the overall experience. The seamless blend of first and third-person narrative, along with the manipulation of time and space, adds depth and complexity to the story, making it a compelling and immersive read for fans of graphic novels.
'The Undertaking: Life Studies from the Dismal Trade' by Thomas Lynch is a collection of essays that provide a unique perspective on life and death through the eyes of a small-town funeral director who is also a poet. Lynch intricately weaves together anecdotes of the dead with reflections on funeral conventions, the art of caring for the deceased, and his own experiences in the funeral industry. The book delves into delicate subjects such as children's funerals, embalming, love, grief, and the existential questions surrounding mortality, all while maintaining a compassionate and insightful narrative.
Lynch's writing style in 'The Undertaking' is described as poetic, compassionate, and thought-provoking. He combines wit, sensitivity, and insight to explore the cultural aspects of death from various perspectives. Through his essays, Lynch manages to find humor in the midst of somber topics, offering a life-affirming view on the inevitable aspect of death. The book not only focuses on the author's profession as an undertaker but also delves into broader themes of love, loss, and the human experience, making it a compelling read for those interested in introspective musings on life and mortality.
- #9
Save:In "Solitude: A Return to the Self" by Anthony Storr, the author challenges the conventional belief that success in personal relationships is the sole key to happiness. Through skillful biographical sketches of creative geniuses like Beethoven, Henry James, and Beatrix Potter, Storr argues that the capacity to be alone is a sign of maturity and can lead to great satisfaction in life. He explores the value of solitude, whether chosen or enforced, and emphasizes its importance even for those who are not inherently creative. Storr's writing style delves into various aspects of solitude, from the hunger of the imagination to the search for coherence in one's life, all while providing a wealth of references to historical figures and creative individuals.
The book delves into the complexities of human nature and the significance of solitude in fostering creativity and personal growth. Storr's thoughtful meditation on the nature of solitude highlights the importance of the impersonal part of the human condition, emphasizing its value for both creativity and healthy living. Through a series of excursions into different aspects of solitude, Storr presents examples of individuals who have thrived in solitude, suggesting that moments of being alone can benefit everyone, regardless of their creative inclinations. He expands the reader's understanding of human flourishing by advocating for a balance between human companionship and introspective solitude.
The current emphasis upon intimate interpersonal relationships as the touchstone of health and happiness is a comparatively recent phenomenon. Earlier generations would not have rated human relationsh... - #10
Save:Penelope Lively's 'Life in the Garden' is a delightful exploration of the world of gardening, filled with humor, fine writing, and insightful reflections. The book takes readers on a journey through the influences of gardening, challenging perceptions and discussing topics like the role of gardening during wartime and the historical significance of famous landscape designers. Lively's writing style is described as companionable, engaging, and intimate, making the reader feel as if they are experiencing the gardens and landscapes firsthand.
Lively's narrative weaves together elements of history, fashion, family reminiscences, and personal reflections on the joys of gardening. The book covers a wide range of topics, from the importance of gardens in enriching our lives to the evolution of gardening trends over time. Through a conversational tone, Lively invites readers to appreciate the process of gardening and gain a deeper understanding of the art and beauty of cultivating plants and landscapes.
