Men and the Water of Life: Initiation and the Tempering of Men

by Michael Meade

A multicultural mythologist marks a vital new phase in contemporary men's work by telling personally moving, universally evocative tales--from the mythic mating dance of an adolescent's Saturday night to a "Forest of Stories" from the African bush, ancient Ireland, Germany, Japan, and Russia.

Genres: Psychology, Mythology, Nonfiction, Spirituality, Philosophy

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1993

Reviews

[Andrew · Rating 5 out of 5]

My wife gave me this book, which could not have come into my life at a better time. It offers the mythological and psychological roadmap of initiation of men - especially relevant to men in western society where initiation is mostly overlooked/forgotten. The way this book brings in stories from different cultures to foster understanding of different aspects of initiation into a man's soul purpose is brilliant. My only criticism would be that Meade loses the momentum of the book to repetition and belaboring the point at times. Then again, this book is less about efficiently getting tips/answers, and more like a long night around the fire with a wise elder. Would highly recommend to men interested in diving into the deeper significance of their journey in life.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started reading this book at first for a book I am writing. However, as I kept reading I found so much applied to me. Some parts were so meaningful that I grabbed my highlighter and made notes. Meade does a wonderful job of first telling a mythological story then taking apart each element of the story. Each part has symbolic value and as very applicable to real life situations, especially those who are followers of Joseph Campbell and The Hero's Journey. I highly recommend this book.

[Ethan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meade looks at many aspects of mens' psyche through the exploration of myths. It is the type of book that can be read a section at a time. It took me about three years to finally read all of it. There is so much packed into each page. I found it exhilarating and exhausting to read.

[John K. Ross, MD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Somewhat dreamy treatment of initiation and manhood.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

from the library

been reading this on and off all year

giving it back and getting it again

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

Essential for those lost in what it truly means to be a man - timeless and grounding!

[Todd Randall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love this book . Reading it a second time after twenty years .