Forgotten Roots

by Karol Kolbusz

Forgotten Roots is a compilation of philosophical essays and reflections on the spiritual condition of the European peoples in the 21st century. The essays explore the connection between the symptoms of the epidemic of modernity: depression, anxiety, and hopelessness, and their causes: the rotten foundations of our civilisation, the disconnection of modern people from their own cultural roots, and a lack of spiritual purpose in their lives. The book aims to show meaningful ways in which individuals who are inwardly detached from the insanity of the modern world can return to the old ways of our ancestors, radically opposite predominant trends and fashions, and lead spiritually fulfilling lives.

Genres: Philosophy, Spirituality

173 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 1, 2019

About the author

My name is Karol, and I was born in 1995. I am a professional Vedic astrologer and the author of five books. My work and studies are deeply rooted in esotericism, traditionalism, and astrology, with a particular focus on Vedic and ancient Indo-European perspectives. I have a strong interest in the early medieval British Isles, especially Scotland, Wales, and Northern Britain, as well as the history and culture of the ancient Celts.

I am also drawn to Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jungian psychology, exploring symbolism and myth. I write haiku poetry and find inspiration in nature, whether hiking through mountains forests, observing shifting seasons, or simply sitting in stillness.

Visit my website for more information about my astrological services:
https://celestialtrail.com/

Reviews

[Ruxandra C · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is beyond a shadow of a doubt that the modern world is not an ideal place for old souls, who believe in traditional values and yearn for a deeper understanding of their own roots, culture, history and customs, as opposed to the increasingly decadent trends that spring up like mushrooms, yet as J.R.R. Tolkien beautifully put it, "there's some good in this world, and it's worth fighting for". This quote best conveys the message behind "Forgotten Roots" by Karol Kolbusz, an anthology of essays analysing the current state of our society and offering both short- and long- term solutions for coping with the constant negativity, hopelessness, lack of purpose and self-destructive tendencies prevalent in this day and age. The book is divided into 23 essays on various topics, such as progress, heroism, brevity and indifference, each of them being introduced by an exquisitely written descriptive paragraph, highlighting the enchantment of a pure and simple way of living. Quoting culturally and historically significant sources, such as the teachings of the Stoics, mythological writings or history books, "Forgotten Roots" also serves as an excellent introduction to lesser known terms belonging to philosophy, such as "dharma", "a supra-individual, metaphysical order that sets the physical world in a state of balance and harmony", or "varna", "the ancient Indo-European system of self-analysis". All in all, "Forgotten Roots" is a book I can wholeheartedly recommend and I believe that it represents a valuable addition to any bookshelf.

[Gabriel Tamaș · Rating 5 out of 5]

A read of utmost lucidity and importance for our young generation. In this small collection of short essays the author tries to give his insight on overcomming some of the deceptions of the modern world. In the vein of other authors from the past two centuries Karol Kolbusz manages to give pieces of advice on surviving the Moloth of (post) modernity. The philosophical system used echoes the ones of former writers, such as Evola or Eliade. Indeed, the use of vedic imagery and philosophy might seem overwhelming at first, but this choice is very well explained in the book, and it differs not from those used by many 20th Century scholars.

What differs from the older authors is that the book deals with contemporary issues like the excesive use of technology, alienation caused by the internet and the shortening of our attention spans, just to name a few. You should read to find out more!

The essays in this book might help the young people of our generation find a path in life and prepare them to face a world left in ruins by our predecessor. But this is not only a so called "self-improvemnt" book given that the changes it suggests do not only help the individual, but deliver the knowledge to help the enviroment and our communities as well!


On a lighter note, many of the essays have short fictional narations in the beginning which sets a mood for the essay that follows, thus enhancing the impact the ideas enounced have on the reader.

So, do not forget your roots. Return to tradition

[Jakub · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book contains series of philosophical essays covering wide range of topics and aspects, yet with one common point: revival of our roots and turning to somewhat forgotten European heritage. Each chapter is written in very rich, elegant language, which brings about the feeling of experiencing something intensely sublime. Author is not only well-read but also seems to create his own conclusions easily from original, often cited sources. It's a valuable remedy for modern day madness and ubiquitous chaos, in which all previous values and borders seem to be gradually erased. And if we don't foresee our The Future yet, with The Present being slowly depraved by so-called rulers - then what is left to do than reaching to our Past? As, in words of George Santayana, "those who do not learn history are doomed to repeat it". Therefore in "Forgotten Roots" we find a worthwhile, thought-provoking source of our own education, our own spiritual journey. Additionally, Mr Kolbusz presents a list of his own cultural recommendations plus hint of proper meditation and establishing our "sacred space", both which are of significant worth. To sum up - this is a great remedy for our souls, great tool for self-improvement. Buy it. Read it. Cherish. Let's this knowledge not become forgotten again.

[Sonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very interesting book, which I enjoyed reading.

The subjects discussed in these essays are of utmost
importance, especially in the state of our world today.
Karol Kolbusz manages to tread these matters with ease using a comprehensible language which can be easily understood, even by individuals who don't peruse this genre of literature.

This work tackles complex topics such as heroism, uniqueness, patience and many more, in a skillful manner, whilst providing guidance to those in need.
It also contains a large array of cultural recommendations, in areas like: art, film, books and music.

Even though some of the themes that are explored in this book were not novel to me, there is plenty of knowlegde that I took with me, after finishing it. I gained an understanting of unfamilliar concepts such as dharma, varna and many more, which I shall read more of, thanks to this book.

I recommend Karol Kolbusz's work to anyone who wishes to widen their comprehension of their ancestral identity, achieve inner self-fulfillment and discover the benefits of the slow-living philosophy.

[Paul Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent thought provoking articles, well written, very timely. I look forward to reading more by this author.

[Zach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent book. Really solid advice for any person, specifically young adults though, on how to get in touch with your European roots. The only part I slightly disagreed with was the criticism of Rock/Metal concerts as I myself am a fan of the genre and feel as though it would have been worth noting that the metal festivals in Europe promote a lot of pro European tradition and community. Otherwise I loved this book and plan on re-reading it again soon to give further analysis. I would strongly agree on the chapters referring to off-roading and hiking. I have been incorporating the instructions on how to meditate into my routine as well. Highly recommend this book, I look forward to reading more from Karol Kolbusz.

[Jeremy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Highly recommended work.

[L. · Rating 5 out of 5]

The reading was undeniably thought-provoking.