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The Eloquence of Silence: Surprising Wisdom in Tales of Emptiness
EMBRACING EMPTINESS, STAYING OPEN, FINDING CALM
With compassion and insight, Thomas Moore offers a compelling case for an easier, lighter way of moving through life by experiencing the peace, calm, and openness of emptiness. Through ancient and modern stories, Moore gently shows that our constant multitasking may not be getting us anywhere, and that emptiness is not a lack but an invitation that can be our greatest teacher. A daily awareness and appreciation of the quiet spaciousness in our world and our own lives is not a retreat from reality but a rich and full welcome to all that is most meaningful and real.
With compassion and insight, Thomas Moore offers a compelling case for an easier, lighter way of moving through life by experiencing the peace, calm, and openness of emptiness. Through ancient and modern stories, Moore gently shows that our constant multitasking may not be getting us anywhere, and that emptiness is not a lack but an invitation that can be our greatest teacher. A daily awareness and appreciation of the quiet spaciousness in our world and our own lives is not a retreat from reality but a rich and full welcome to all that is most meaningful and real.
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Published June 6, 2023
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About the author
Thomas Moore
137 books591 followersThomas Moore is the author of the bestselling book, Care of the Soul, Ageless Soul, and fifteen other books on deepening spirituality and cultivating soul in every aspect of life. He has been a monk, a musician, a university professor, and a psychotherapist, and today he lectures widely on holistic medicine, spirituality, psychotherapy, and the arts. He lectures frequently in Ireland and has a special love of Irish culture. He has Ph.D. in religion from Syracuse University and has won several awards for his work, including an honorary doctorate from Lesley University and the Humanitarian Award from Einstein Medical School of Yeshiva University. He also has a B.A. in music from DePaul University, an M.A. in musicology from the University of Michigan, and an M.A. in theology from the University of Windsor. He also writes fiction and music and often works with his wife, artist and yoga instructor, Hari Kirin. He writes regular columns for Resurgence and Spirituality & Health.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
Librarian Note: There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name. See this thread for more information.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
July 13, 2023
'A Crystalline Glimpse of Hope'
I am using this often-abused term "hope" in starting this review, even though I know that Thomas Moore himself regards "hope" as so confusing that he warned me against using it when writing about his new book. I interviewed him for an upcoming magazine story I am writing about the publication of The Eloquence of Silence, which is approximately Moore's 30th book and is distinctively different than many of his other books.
"The word hope can be a problem," he told me in our interview. "People will think I'm talking about hoping for something, something they might want or some specific outcome. But when I talk about hope, I'm not interested in those things. I don't know what the future holds. I don't think that hope refers to a specific set of doctrines. But generally I would say that hope is an essential way of approaching life, as in the call to value 'faith, hope and charity.' If we are concerned about how to live in a community, today, I can't think of a better trio to follow than faith, hope and charity. But don't let people think that I'm talking about hope for an object of desire."
So I have added Moore's qualifier from his own lips.
And, now, I can write clearly in this review: This is a remarkably hope-filled book. Despite many of the somber spiritual challenges posed in this book, it's overall a remarkably joyful collection of readings.
If you have been a fan of Moore's work, perhaps since his 1992 best-seller Care of the Soul, then you know that his books cover a cosmic range of themes. Among the favorites by Moore in my home library are 2004's Dark Nights of the Soul and 2017's Ageless Soul. But, along the way, Moore even wrote a book abut golf. No kidding. I don't own a copy, but for the record it's called The Guru of Golf.
In his vast literary output, then, it's saying something to call this book "unique."
So, why is this one so unusual? Let's start with the fact that he encourages readers to dive in anywhere, almost on any page. You could read the chapters in this book in reverse order, if you want, or select chapters at random. Each one is a crystalline artwork, and I use that word intentionally because Moore himself says he thinks of this book as an "artwork."
Each chapter opens with a brief excerpt of a classic spiritual tale or essay or poem. Then, he tells us a little true story that casts light through the lens of that opening passage. The result is chapters that are just a few pages long and that light up like a Dale Chihuly glass creation, sometimes delighting readers and sometimes troubling us.
The opening passages in each chapter are drawn from a wide range of faith traditions. Many of these very brief passages amount to stories you'll be eager to read to a friend as soon as you have discovered them. I know that was my experience reading this book. People got a little tired of my saying, "Oh! Oh! I've got to read this one to you, too."
The central theme of the book is described as "silence" in the main title, but in my interview with Moore he admitted that the word that really captures the main theme is: "emptiness."
"But who would buy a book that says it's about emptiness? That sounds like a blank book," he joked, explaining why he agreed to The Eloquence of Silence as the main title and hid the word "emptiness" in the book's subtitle.
What else makes this book special? It's so easy to read! While many of Moore's books are written for specific audiences—sometimes aimed more at religious leaders, therapists and academics than ordinary readers—this book is for all of us. There's something here for everyone to discover, day by day, and there's no excuse that you don't have the time. These chapters take just a few minutes.
And for all of that hopeful, joyous light Moore has given us—I'm as happy with this new Moore book as I've been since I first discovered Care of the Soul more than 30 years ago.
I am using this often-abused term "hope" in starting this review, even though I know that Thomas Moore himself regards "hope" as so confusing that he warned me against using it when writing about his new book. I interviewed him for an upcoming magazine story I am writing about the publication of The Eloquence of Silence, which is approximately Moore's 30th book and is distinctively different than many of his other books.
"The word hope can be a problem," he told me in our interview. "People will think I'm talking about hoping for something, something they might want or some specific outcome. But when I talk about hope, I'm not interested in those things. I don't know what the future holds. I don't think that hope refers to a specific set of doctrines. But generally I would say that hope is an essential way of approaching life, as in the call to value 'faith, hope and charity.' If we are concerned about how to live in a community, today, I can't think of a better trio to follow than faith, hope and charity. But don't let people think that I'm talking about hope for an object of desire."
So I have added Moore's qualifier from his own lips.
And, now, I can write clearly in this review: This is a remarkably hope-filled book. Despite many of the somber spiritual challenges posed in this book, it's overall a remarkably joyful collection of readings.
If you have been a fan of Moore's work, perhaps since his 1992 best-seller Care of the Soul, then you know that his books cover a cosmic range of themes. Among the favorites by Moore in my home library are 2004's Dark Nights of the Soul and 2017's Ageless Soul. But, along the way, Moore even wrote a book abut golf. No kidding. I don't own a copy, but for the record it's called The Guru of Golf.
In his vast literary output, then, it's saying something to call this book "unique."
So, why is this one so unusual? Let's start with the fact that he encourages readers to dive in anywhere, almost on any page. You could read the chapters in this book in reverse order, if you want, or select chapters at random. Each one is a crystalline artwork, and I use that word intentionally because Moore himself says he thinks of this book as an "artwork."
Each chapter opens with a brief excerpt of a classic spiritual tale or essay or poem. Then, he tells us a little true story that casts light through the lens of that opening passage. The result is chapters that are just a few pages long and that light up like a Dale Chihuly glass creation, sometimes delighting readers and sometimes troubling us.
The opening passages in each chapter are drawn from a wide range of faith traditions. Many of these very brief passages amount to stories you'll be eager to read to a friend as soon as you have discovered them. I know that was my experience reading this book. People got a little tired of my saying, "Oh! Oh! I've got to read this one to you, too."
The central theme of the book is described as "silence" in the main title, but in my interview with Moore he admitted that the word that really captures the main theme is: "emptiness."
"But who would buy a book that says it's about emptiness? That sounds like a blank book," he joked, explaining why he agreed to The Eloquence of Silence as the main title and hid the word "emptiness" in the book's subtitle.
What else makes this book special? It's so easy to read! While many of Moore's books are written for specific audiences—sometimes aimed more at religious leaders, therapists and academics than ordinary readers—this book is for all of us. There's something here for everyone to discover, day by day, and there's no excuse that you don't have the time. These chapters take just a few minutes.
And for all of that hopeful, joyous light Moore has given us—I'm as happy with this new Moore book as I've been since I first discovered Care of the Soul more than 30 years ago.
Read
September 3, 2025"Iesākumā lasīt nebija viegli - bija jāatbrīvojas no aizspriedumiem, jāsastop tukšums sevī. Jāatmet liekais, lai ļautos jaunam. Vārds "tukšums" man vienmēr šķitis biedējošs. Pieredze un gadiem uzstājīgi klātesošā parašu atmiņa, kas uzkrājusies, tradicionālā domāšana šim vārdam piešķīrusi negatīvu nozīmi - "slikts", "neesošs", "neizglītots". Esam uzauguši (vismaz mana paaudze) ar izteicieniem un apzīmējumiem kā "tukša muca tālu skan", "tukšs kā baznīca darba dienā", "tukši vārdi nebaro", "labāk klusēt, nekā tukši runāt", "tukšpauris" u.c. Bet šeit ir runa par pavisam citu tukšumu - par tādu, kas ir vajadzīgs, lai augtu, attīstītos, radītu un pieņemtu ko jaunu. Tāpēc sākumā jācīnās ar sevi - jāatbrīvojas no zināmā, kas dziļi noslāņojies, un jāļaujas tukšuma izzināšanai."
Vairāk par Tomasa Mūra grāmatu "Kad klusums runā" (Zvaigzne ABC, 2025) lasiet Diānas Rudzītes apskatā LNB portālā "Literatūras ceļvedis" septembra numurā.
https://www.literaturascelvedis.lv/po...
Diāna Rudzīte ir LNB Attīstības departamenta Bibliotēku attīstības centra statistikas un datu analīzes eksperte.
Vairāk par Tomasa Mūra grāmatu "Kad klusums runā" (Zvaigzne ABC, 2025) lasiet Diānas Rudzītes apskatā LNB portālā "Literatūras ceļvedis" septembra numurā.
https://www.literaturascelvedis.lv/po...
Diāna Rudzīte ir LNB Attīstības departamenta Bibliotēku attīstības centra statistikas un datu analīzes eksperte.
June 24, 2025
Pēc aktīvas nedēļas un divām intensīvām dienām LAMPĀ, svētdienas rītā iegrimu šajā grāmatā — un tā mani patiesi aizrāva.
Lielisks darbs, kas liek aizdomāties par mūsdienu piesātināto dzīvi, trokšņaino ikdienu un to, cik reti mēs patiesi sastopamies ar klusumu sevī un ap sevi.
Tomass Mūrs raksta dziļi, sirsnīgi un ar lielu iekšēju gudrību. Viņa vārdi man palīdzēja rast skaidrību un risinājumu dažās situācijās, kurās jau kādu laiku biju iestrēgusi.
Esmu cilvēks ar izteiktu vēlmi sasniegt un darīt — man patīk skriet, būt kustībā, un klusuma brīžos bieži jūtos nemierīga vai pat frustrēta. Taču ar katru gadu arvien vairāk mācos pieņemt klusumu un tukšumu kā vērtību, nevis trūkumu.
Lieliska grāmata ar tik daudz domu graudiem tikai 181 lpp
"...ja meklējat kaut ko, ko ļoti vēlaties, tomēr paliekat tukšā, varbūt tas ir pats labākais iznākums. Bieži vien ir labāk neiegūt to, ko vēlamies. Pirmām kārtām jūs varat neapzināties, ka meklējumu objekts ilgtermiņā nen;aks jums par labu, lai cik spēcīga būtu jūsu vēlme to iegūt. Jūs varat nesaskatīt kopainu un koncentrēties tikai uz šauru mērķi. truklāt reizēm piepildīta vēlme bloķē citas iespējas"
"...vai man ir spēks paklusēt? Iespējams, atklāsiet, ka tukšums sarunā spēj paveikt vairāk nekā daudzi vārdi"
"Noslēpumainā kārtā tukšums vat definēt to, kas mēs esam, un palīdzēt rast dzīvē piepildījumu"
"Mēs vēlamies, lai mūsu dzīve augtu, itkā būtu augs, kam vienkārši nepieciešams ūdens, saules gaisma un gādība. Taču varbūt izaugsme nav vienīgā vērtība. Varbūt ir svarīgi, ka daļa mūsu potenciāla paliek neīstenota. Varbūt mums ir vajadzīgi strupceļi un nepiepildōtas iespējas. Varbūt tas viss veido mūsu esības kopainu"
"....Lai dzīvē gūtu panākumus, jātiecas ne vien uz izaugsmi un panākumiem, bet arī uz izaugsmes trūkumu un neveiksmēm"
"Tukšums var būt aicinājums palielināt dzīves intensitāti un prieku. Jūs uzņematies jaunu darbu, un sākumā jums šķiet, ka tas ir bezvērtīgs, līdz sasmaržojat tā apslēpto labumu. Pirmais acu uzmetiens var maldināt. reizēm citas "maņas"- intuīcija, atmiņas, tālredzība un iztēle - var pastāstīt vairāk par redzi"
"Negaidiet citu cilvēku līdzjūtību. Negaidiet īpašu attieksmi. Neprasiet atlīdzību. Ja zaudējums jūs iztukšo, ļaujiet, lai šī iztukšošanās paliek tukša. Nesabojājiet to, pārvēršot to par kaut ko"
"Atzinība mums visiem ir ļoti nepieciešama-varbūt tāpēc, ka mūsdienu pasaulē nav viegli justies pamanītam un novērtētam"
Lielisks darbs, kas liek aizdomāties par mūsdienu piesātināto dzīvi, trokšņaino ikdienu un to, cik reti mēs patiesi sastopamies ar klusumu sevī un ap sevi.
Tomass Mūrs raksta dziļi, sirsnīgi un ar lielu iekšēju gudrību. Viņa vārdi man palīdzēja rast skaidrību un risinājumu dažās situācijās, kurās jau kādu laiku biju iestrēgusi.
Esmu cilvēks ar izteiktu vēlmi sasniegt un darīt — man patīk skriet, būt kustībā, un klusuma brīžos bieži jūtos nemierīga vai pat frustrēta. Taču ar katru gadu arvien vairāk mācos pieņemt klusumu un tukšumu kā vērtību, nevis trūkumu.
Lieliska grāmata ar tik daudz domu graudiem tikai 181 lpp
"...ja meklējat kaut ko, ko ļoti vēlaties, tomēr paliekat tukšā, varbūt tas ir pats labākais iznākums. Bieži vien ir labāk neiegūt to, ko vēlamies. Pirmām kārtām jūs varat neapzināties, ka meklējumu objekts ilgtermiņā nen;aks jums par labu, lai cik spēcīga būtu jūsu vēlme to iegūt. Jūs varat nesaskatīt kopainu un koncentrēties tikai uz šauru mērķi. truklāt reizēm piepildīta vēlme bloķē citas iespējas"
"...vai man ir spēks paklusēt? Iespējams, atklāsiet, ka tukšums sarunā spēj paveikt vairāk nekā daudzi vārdi"
"Noslēpumainā kārtā tukšums vat definēt to, kas mēs esam, un palīdzēt rast dzīvē piepildījumu"
"Mēs vēlamies, lai mūsu dzīve augtu, itkā būtu augs, kam vienkārši nepieciešams ūdens, saules gaisma un gādība. Taču varbūt izaugsme nav vienīgā vērtība. Varbūt ir svarīgi, ka daļa mūsu potenciāla paliek neīstenota. Varbūt mums ir vajadzīgi strupceļi un nepiepildōtas iespējas. Varbūt tas viss veido mūsu esības kopainu"
"....Lai dzīvē gūtu panākumus, jātiecas ne vien uz izaugsmi un panākumiem, bet arī uz izaugsmes trūkumu un neveiksmēm"
"Tukšums var būt aicinājums palielināt dzīves intensitāti un prieku. Jūs uzņematies jaunu darbu, un sākumā jums šķiet, ka tas ir bezvērtīgs, līdz sasmaržojat tā apslēpto labumu. Pirmais acu uzmetiens var maldināt. reizēm citas "maņas"- intuīcija, atmiņas, tālredzība un iztēle - var pastāstīt vairāk par redzi"
"Negaidiet citu cilvēku līdzjūtību. Negaidiet īpašu attieksmi. Neprasiet atlīdzību. Ja zaudējums jūs iztukšo, ļaujiet, lai šī iztukšošanās paliek tukša. Nesabojājiet to, pārvēršot to par kaut ko"
"Atzinība mums visiem ir ļoti nepieciešama-varbūt tāpēc, ka mūsdienu pasaulē nav viegli justies pamanītam un novērtētam"
January 20, 2024
All I can say is that the author’s work keeps me sane, and this book is no exception. Thank you.
P.S. A personal reflection on silence. I am not a stranger to silent retreats and walks in the woods. However, all of that seems trivial now in perspective of the most recent events. There has been covid and a failed revolution, then a war, divorce and yet another war. To top it up my beloved father passed away quite recently and under grim circumstances. It has not been possible for me to reconcile all the reactions of my body and emotions to this last event, but I have been adamant about carving out space to be alone and to be quiet with myself. To go about a few days a week quietly has helped with holding on to a part of me that loves life and finds joy in it.
P.S. A personal reflection on silence. I am not a stranger to silent retreats and walks in the woods. However, all of that seems trivial now in perspective of the most recent events. There has been covid and a failed revolution, then a war, divorce and yet another war. To top it up my beloved father passed away quite recently and under grim circumstances. It has not been possible for me to reconcile all the reactions of my body and emotions to this last event, but I have been adamant about carving out space to be alone and to be quiet with myself. To go about a few days a week quietly has helped with holding on to a part of me that loves life and finds joy in it.
May 21, 2025
I'm a Jungian and a modern Polytheist: I like Thomas Moore a lot in general. My feelings on this book are a bit mixed. Honestly, I wavered between three or four stars. Maybe a certain amount of liminality is a form of emptiness, though?
Among a few objections that came up for me was his exhortation to be silent about your hardships (I am not remembering the exact phrasing, apologies). This came across as very ableist. Sometimes the next right step we can take for ourselves and for others after us is to speak out, to rock the boat and voice our needs for accommodations. The emptiness of silence can have a toxic aspect. Sometimes keeping silent only benefits those with the coldest hearts. I guess I could take that thought a bit further: there is very little acknowledgment of the dark sides--the Shadow--of emptiness in this book.
As an Autistic person, I also felt certain limits on his writings against literalism. Sometimes the literal very much has its place. Again, there is an undertone that he is speaking to--shall we say--more "conventional" individuals in his writing.
On that note, male pattern baldness as a sign of sacredness? Oh my. Pity about the rest of us?
The "lessons" also contradict themselves at times... which can be fine in a way, as that is a certain sort of emptiness. One part writes against a mindless praise of growth and maturation, another speaks of lost innocence as "inevitable" and seems to sort of miss the point of having ideals like justice, to my mind.
But overall, I did like the book. It is an excellent antidote to the poison in modern society, with its false dogma that we must be busy and flashy and "achieve." This book reminds us that a deep, beautiful, and meaningful life can be found in the quiet and simple spaces. So... four stars.
Among a few objections that came up for me was his exhortation to be silent about your hardships (I am not remembering the exact phrasing, apologies). This came across as very ableist. Sometimes the next right step we can take for ourselves and for others after us is to speak out, to rock the boat and voice our needs for accommodations. The emptiness of silence can have a toxic aspect. Sometimes keeping silent only benefits those with the coldest hearts. I guess I could take that thought a bit further: there is very little acknowledgment of the dark sides--the Shadow--of emptiness in this book.
As an Autistic person, I also felt certain limits on his writings against literalism. Sometimes the literal very much has its place. Again, there is an undertone that he is speaking to--shall we say--more "conventional" individuals in his writing.
On that note, male pattern baldness as a sign of sacredness? Oh my. Pity about the rest of us?
The "lessons" also contradict themselves at times... which can be fine in a way, as that is a certain sort of emptiness. One part writes against a mindless praise of growth and maturation, another speaks of lost innocence as "inevitable" and seems to sort of miss the point of having ideals like justice, to my mind.
But overall, I did like the book. It is an excellent antidote to the poison in modern society, with its false dogma that we must be busy and flashy and "achieve." This book reminds us that a deep, beautiful, and meaningful life can be found in the quiet and simple spaces. So... four stars.
February 5, 2024
Mr. Moore ends this book with this advice:
"Think of your life as full of parks, beaches, and mountain trails. I don't mean this literally, but as metaphors for how you spend a day. Having windows and doors in your daily schedule, you won't be confined because you will know now how important it is to cultivate emptiness. Keep some empty easy chairs in your heart, too, so when people come along, there will be places for them to visit and be warmly received. Keep some empty spaces in your head so when a new idea appears, you can entertain it. Be empty so life can happen."
I like that last sentence. And after reading this compilation of stories on "emptiness", I have a new perspective on how to enjoy a more peaceful, calmness in my life. This is a book that can be re-read whenever you feel the need to refresh any of these ideas. Some, I want to remember:
"Sometimes,...it is best to keep quiet instead of speaking. Someone criticizes you and expects a defensive response, but you don't say anything. You are not being passive and weak, because it takes considerable strength and special skill to be quiet."
"If you fill up your life, nothing unexpected can happen. You can't make fresh discoveries, and you will have few surprises and revelations."
"Look for what no one sees. Pay attention to the invisibles."
"When you cultivate not-knowing along with learning, you also allow room for mystery, for the profound and inexplicable parts of life that give you a sense of awe."
"Think of your life as full of parks, beaches, and mountain trails. I don't mean this literally, but as metaphors for how you spend a day. Having windows and doors in your daily schedule, you won't be confined because you will know now how important it is to cultivate emptiness. Keep some empty easy chairs in your heart, too, so when people come along, there will be places for them to visit and be warmly received. Keep some empty spaces in your head so when a new idea appears, you can entertain it. Be empty so life can happen."
I like that last sentence. And after reading this compilation of stories on "emptiness", I have a new perspective on how to enjoy a more peaceful, calmness in my life. This is a book that can be re-read whenever you feel the need to refresh any of these ideas. Some, I want to remember:
"Sometimes,...it is best to keep quiet instead of speaking. Someone criticizes you and expects a defensive response, but you don't say anything. You are not being passive and weak, because it takes considerable strength and special skill to be quiet."
"If you fill up your life, nothing unexpected can happen. You can't make fresh discoveries, and you will have few surprises and revelations."
"Look for what no one sees. Pay attention to the invisibles."
"When you cultivate not-knowing along with learning, you also allow room for mystery, for the profound and inexplicable parts of life that give you a sense of awe."
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2023
This review originally appeared on The Magical Buffet website on 0/05/2023.
Not to sound all hipster or anything, but with me studying Zen, I am not unfamiliar with the examination of emptiness, nothingness, or silence. That said, I had more than one “wow” moment while reading Thomas Moore’s latest book, “The Eloquence of Silence: Surprising Wisdom in Tales of Emptiness.”
Moore shares a variety of stories from a wide range of sources that feature subjects like silence and emptiness. There are obvious picks from Buddhism, but you’ll also find multicultural folklore, Bible stories, Oscar Wilde, and more. It is a nice way to discuss the topic, while making it a bit more interesting. Honestly, what surprised me (thus proving what a bad Zen lady I am), was how frequently the stories and their lessons weren’t bummers. I requested a review copy “The Eloquence of Silence” fully expecting a quiet, contemplative text, that may leave me in a funk. Instead, I found an interesting conversation, examining silence and what positives can be found in what appears to be negative.
So, who is “The Eloquence of Silence” for? As humans, we’re destined to feel the pangs of emptiness and silence, it just comes with the gig, so technically everybody. However, it is a great book for people interested in varying cultures and like to exam themselves and the world around them with different perspectives.
Not to sound all hipster or anything, but with me studying Zen, I am not unfamiliar with the examination of emptiness, nothingness, or silence. That said, I had more than one “wow” moment while reading Thomas Moore’s latest book, “The Eloquence of Silence: Surprising Wisdom in Tales of Emptiness.”
Moore shares a variety of stories from a wide range of sources that feature subjects like silence and emptiness. There are obvious picks from Buddhism, but you’ll also find multicultural folklore, Bible stories, Oscar Wilde, and more. It is a nice way to discuss the topic, while making it a bit more interesting. Honestly, what surprised me (thus proving what a bad Zen lady I am), was how frequently the stories and their lessons weren’t bummers. I requested a review copy “The Eloquence of Silence” fully expecting a quiet, contemplative text, that may leave me in a funk. Instead, I found an interesting conversation, examining silence and what positives can be found in what appears to be negative.
So, who is “The Eloquence of Silence” for? As humans, we’re destined to feel the pangs of emptiness and silence, it just comes with the gig, so technically everybody. However, it is a great book for people interested in varying cultures and like to exam themselves and the world around them with different perspectives.
June 10, 2023
The concept of success in modern life is predicated on busyness: packing all hours with doing, achieving, and hoarding. “Hustle life” is glorified, the constant yearning for more. Even as we navigate loss and pain, the common advice is to keep going and keep moving. Many lifetimes are squandered, chasing pleasures or running away from pain. Instead of yearning to fill the proverbial cup, what if we sat still with emptiness?
"The Eloquence of Silence" is Thomas Moore’s encouragement to allow spaciousness into our lives. Through meditative writings on the gifts of silence and detaching from expectations. Moore draws from the wisdom of folktales, literary works, and various spiritual traditions—from Judaism to Christianity to Zen Buddhism—to share age-old beliefs about the value of emptiness.
Followers of Moore who benefited from his works about deepening spiritual practices to advance moral development will appreciate how this book dispenses well-grounded advice. Others who are looking for secular applications of the Heart Sutra will find solace in Moore’s contemplations on how slowing down and letting go can renew our commitment to humanity, virtue, and kindness. The lessons are meant for seekers on the path toward another way of dealing with challenging emotional experiences, ready to realize peace and comfort.
"The Eloquence of Silence" is Thomas Moore’s encouragement to allow spaciousness into our lives. Through meditative writings on the gifts of silence and detaching from expectations. Moore draws from the wisdom of folktales, literary works, and various spiritual traditions—from Judaism to Christianity to Zen Buddhism—to share age-old beliefs about the value of emptiness.
Followers of Moore who benefited from his works about deepening spiritual practices to advance moral development will appreciate how this book dispenses well-grounded advice. Others who are looking for secular applications of the Heart Sutra will find solace in Moore’s contemplations on how slowing down and letting go can renew our commitment to humanity, virtue, and kindness. The lessons are meant for seekers on the path toward another way of dealing with challenging emotional experiences, ready to realize peace and comfort.
August 27, 2024
I’ve considered Thomas Moore one of my spiritual teachers since I first read his groundbreaking Care of the Soul when it came out in the early 1990’s. I have to say his characteristically thoughtful teachings and wise understanding about the spiritual life has only deepened and matured as he has aged. In this latest offering, Moore explores the concept of emptiness, using small wisdom tales or quotes to introduce each chapter. Zen-like and even ethereal in its language and tone, and often using references to the classics as Moore has always been known for, this small volume is a real treasure. And I absolutely love the title for there is truly something beautifully eloquent about the kind of inner stillness and spaciousness that is illuminated so perfectly on each page of this book.
July 21, 2023
I read this book an entry at a time - almost like a daily devotional. Several of the entries were inspiring, many of them had me thinking and some where separate from how I think/worship. The readings were calming and focused on the topic of becoming empty. I think the concept of emptying ourselves of the "extras" in our lives is a good one.
July 22, 2024
I could read this one over and over. Each short chapter presents something to contemplate. I kept stopping so I could review what I just read.
It's a beautiful book that presents a new way to look at the world around you. Charming, easy to digest, and full of surprising wisdom, just as it says on the cover.
It's a beautiful book that presents a new way to look at the world around you. Charming, easy to digest, and full of surprising wisdom, just as it says on the cover.
August 18, 2025
Thomas Moore invites readers to embrace the richness of emptiness, showing that stillness and spaciousness are not voids to fear but teachers to welcome. Blending ancient wisdom with modern insight, he reveals how letting go of constant busyness opens the way to peace, clarity, and a more meaningful life.
September 19, 2025
Esmu lasījusi vairākus šī autora darbus, bet šis likās nedaudz komerciāls. Ja “Rūpēs par Dvēseli” bija dziļa un savas dvēseles bagātinoša grāmata, tad šī likās uzrakstīta, lai plūktu atkārtotus laurus. Īsti nepatīk, kad rakstnieki nenotur līmeni un raksta rakstīšanas pēc. Dažas jaunas atklāsmes guvu, bet par tēmu “klusums” būtu gaidījusi vairāk.
March 15, 2024
I appreciate the concepts generally (Metaphors and short meditations, lots of meaning-making, Zen & Sufi stories, thought exercises, etc), but this one just didn't resonate with me. I'm having a hard time finding the right words for why not.
February 25, 2025
A profound group of stories the reframes emptiness and the process of emptying. Very enlightening and a challenge to old perspectives of empty space, Thomas Moore leads us with his practical spirituality.
November 21, 2023
This book will earn higher rank as I understand it better, but that will take several more readings.
March 22, 2024
“If you want to be full you must start with emptiness”
April 18, 2024
A book to read reread contemplate
June 19, 2024
Meant to be read slowly and pondered, each chapter is a short poem/story followed by the author’s reflections on emptiness as a spiritual practice.
July 31, 2024
The concepts are interesting, but I found it challenging to get through.
Want to read
October 31, 2025emily F rec
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