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The Warrior Poet Way: A Guide to Living Free and Dying Well
An instant Wall Street Journal Bestseller!
From the founder of the Warrior Poet Society, a daring manual on how to become a dangerous—and good—man
There is a war on masculinity, and everywhere we look—on every front we hold sacred—we can see the painful reminders of this collapsing order. The chaos and crisis we are experiencing today should be a signal for men everywhere to rise up; to fight to preserve our way of life by once again walking the ancient paths. But this isn’t a journey that need be taken alone.
In The Warrior Poet Way, public speaker, former Army Ranger, and all-around patriot John Lovell offers a needed antidote to the lack of strong men in our modern world. This is a call to all men to be what they truly are. Both dangerous and good. Lovers and fighters. Lions and lambs.
Both philosophical and practical, this guide dispenses essential advice on how to be a whole man, from tyranny-proofing your home to wooing the right woman. Through anecdotes of his time in the military, interviews with other men, and practicums at the end of each chapter, Lovell teaches the virtue of balance—navigating the tension between violent warrior and romantic poet—and guides men through each mental and physical change they must make to embody the ancient spirit of a real man.
This is a manual for every man to use in the fight of their life—and what it takes to win. No good thing comes easy, and the life you want is just on the other end of what you don’t want to do. This is the Warrior Poet Way. Are you ready to walk it?
From the founder of the Warrior Poet Society, a daring manual on how to become a dangerous—and good—man
There is a war on masculinity, and everywhere we look—on every front we hold sacred—we can see the painful reminders of this collapsing order. The chaos and crisis we are experiencing today should be a signal for men everywhere to rise up; to fight to preserve our way of life by once again walking the ancient paths. But this isn’t a journey that need be taken alone.
In The Warrior Poet Way, public speaker, former Army Ranger, and all-around patriot John Lovell offers a needed antidote to the lack of strong men in our modern world. This is a call to all men to be what they truly are. Both dangerous and good. Lovers and fighters. Lions and lambs.
Both philosophical and practical, this guide dispenses essential advice on how to be a whole man, from tyranny-proofing your home to wooing the right woman. Through anecdotes of his time in the military, interviews with other men, and practicums at the end of each chapter, Lovell teaches the virtue of balance—navigating the tension between violent warrior and romantic poet—and guides men through each mental and physical change they must make to embody the ancient spirit of a real man.
This is a manual for every man to use in the fight of their life—and what it takes to win. No good thing comes easy, and the life you want is just on the other end of what you don’t want to do. This is the Warrior Poet Way. Are you ready to walk it?
287 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 11, 2023
509 people are currently reading
1509 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
July 17, 2023
Get. This. Book.
Seriously.
Like, right now.
Especially if you are more inclined to the Warrior side of things and are sick of the modern Christian man who loves Jesus but whose ONLY resource when sh*t starts going down is to pray. If your plan is to pray in tongues WHILE seeking cover and preparing to engage the threat, this is the perfect book for you.
And if that previous paragraph made no sense to you, have no fear. As someone who can spend hours writing songs, gets completely lost and cries in worship, and consistently re-reads/watches Pride and Prejudice with my bride, I can confirm that this is also the perfect book for you.
If you need a kick in the pants to fan the flames of the warrior inside of you - this book will do it.
If you need a reality check to make you chill out with all the high-speed chiz, take a min to relax, play with your kids, love on your wife and spend time thinking deeply about your life - this book will do it.
Whoever you are and whatever you need, if you are a man, you need to read this book.
Favorite Quote: “When a man fears discomfort, danger is not far off.”
Seriously.
Like, right now.
Especially if you are more inclined to the Warrior side of things and are sick of the modern Christian man who loves Jesus but whose ONLY resource when sh*t starts going down is to pray. If your plan is to pray in tongues WHILE seeking cover and preparing to engage the threat, this is the perfect book for you.
And if that previous paragraph made no sense to you, have no fear. As someone who can spend hours writing songs, gets completely lost and cries in worship, and consistently re-reads/watches Pride and Prejudice with my bride, I can confirm that this is also the perfect book for you.
If you need a kick in the pants to fan the flames of the warrior inside of you - this book will do it.
If you need a reality check to make you chill out with all the high-speed chiz, take a min to relax, play with your kids, love on your wife and spend time thinking deeply about your life - this book will do it.
Whoever you are and whatever you need, if you are a man, you need to read this book.
Favorite Quote: “When a man fears discomfort, danger is not far off.”
Read
November 8, 2023Disclaimer: No star rating, as I'm certain it would be interpreted as an assessment of Lovell's viewpoints & what he believes in (religious/political perspective), instead of a fair rating of the book itself.
I've reached out for this book as I truly believe in the "Good times/bad times" meme. And I strongly agree with the author that a modern man should be some sort of a warrior, resilient, resourceful, gritty, and to some level - selfless, caring for the micro-/macro-society he belongs to. So a lot of what is said in this book has truly resonated with me, but ... there were many things that put me off. I'll cover them briefly, so you pretty much know what to expect.
1. The book should be titled "The Warrior Priest Way", instead of "Warrior Poet". JL refers to his faith & Jesus pretty much all the time - it's super-clear the Christian god is very important in his life. There's nothing wrong about that: if he needs it, if that's something that backs up his value system - that's very good. But, pardon my words, his ways of thinking are ... very simple, sometimes even ... childish, so there are very cringy moments. I don't want to criticize his faith, so I'll bring a neutral example - he couldn't stand the fact that there were many philosophical doctrines & they were in conflict, so there was no common, absolute truth. John would like life to be black & white - possible to judge at the very first glance ... That's noble, but ... c'mon ...
2. I agree with many of his points on competitiveness, fierceness, etc. - but I totally missed the other (darker) side - about being an asshole, dangerous for the society, for the weaker ones. E.g. he brags about wrestling his sons, but he didn't mention how do they behave in other environments: like school, or among friends - people who may not aspire to be such "warriors" as ex-ranger. I missed this part: when NOT to be a warrior (there's one exception - about the treatment of your spouse - that's where you're supposed to be "a poet").
3. In the final section JL gets into prepping (OK, some good points) and guns - that opens the Pandora Box, when he goes all out about personal freedom, autocratic despots, etc. I'm OK with reading opinions of people I do not agree with if they bring some good arguments to the table. Unfortunately, the author sticks to his simplistic black and white views, and references like the ones to King David ...
This is a very specific book & I'm not sure who should read it. If you're a hardcore, deeply religious conservative - it will not bring anything new to your beliefs. Amplifying whatever's already in your small echo chamber doesn't look like much value added. And the thinking here is so over-simplified, that there's no chance for any thought-provoking epiphany. If you're not in that group, this book won't help you understand conservatives better. Neither does it do anything to bridge some gaps that polarize society so strongly.
JL has probably written it as some sort of personal credo - because of some need to express who he is and what he believes in. Sadly, it seems to me he has made a book just for himself.
I've reached out for this book as I truly believe in the "Good times/bad times" meme. And I strongly agree with the author that a modern man should be some sort of a warrior, resilient, resourceful, gritty, and to some level - selfless, caring for the micro-/macro-society he belongs to. So a lot of what is said in this book has truly resonated with me, but ... there were many things that put me off. I'll cover them briefly, so you pretty much know what to expect.
1. The book should be titled "The Warrior Priest Way", instead of "Warrior Poet". JL refers to his faith & Jesus pretty much all the time - it's super-clear the Christian god is very important in his life. There's nothing wrong about that: if he needs it, if that's something that backs up his value system - that's very good. But, pardon my words, his ways of thinking are ... very simple, sometimes even ... childish, so there are very cringy moments. I don't want to criticize his faith, so I'll bring a neutral example - he couldn't stand the fact that there were many philosophical doctrines & they were in conflict, so there was no common, absolute truth. John would like life to be black & white - possible to judge at the very first glance ... That's noble, but ... c'mon ...
2. I agree with many of his points on competitiveness, fierceness, etc. - but I totally missed the other (darker) side - about being an asshole, dangerous for the society, for the weaker ones. E.g. he brags about wrestling his sons, but he didn't mention how do they behave in other environments: like school, or among friends - people who may not aspire to be such "warriors" as ex-ranger. I missed this part: when NOT to be a warrior (there's one exception - about the treatment of your spouse - that's where you're supposed to be "a poet").
3. In the final section JL gets into prepping (OK, some good points) and guns - that opens the Pandora Box, when he goes all out about personal freedom, autocratic despots, etc. I'm OK with reading opinions of people I do not agree with if they bring some good arguments to the table. Unfortunately, the author sticks to his simplistic black and white views, and references like the ones to King David ...
This is a very specific book & I'm not sure who should read it. If you're a hardcore, deeply religious conservative - it will not bring anything new to your beliefs. Amplifying whatever's already in your small echo chamber doesn't look like much value added. And the thinking here is so over-simplified, that there's no chance for any thought-provoking epiphany. If you're not in that group, this book won't help you understand conservatives better. Neither does it do anything to bridge some gaps that polarize society so strongly.
JL has probably written it as some sort of personal credo - because of some need to express who he is and what he believes in. Sadly, it seems to me he has made a book just for himself.
July 28, 2023
I don’t normally review books but for this one I’m going to make an exception.
I originally ordered it because I knew John Lovell from Warrior Poet Society and wanted to support his book. I expected to like it but I wasn’t prepared for how good this book ended up being.
This book blew me away. Looking at the table of contents, there were some chapters (like Face Death Before You Die and Learn to Dance) that I thought would be filler chapters that didn’t overly apply to me. Boy was I wrong. Those ended up being some of the most impactful chapters and ones that can only be described as life changing (not a term I throw around).
John’s writing style is also very enjoyable. It’s conversational yet also very readable with dad jokes sprinkled in that you can’t help but smile at. It’s a very humble book and many of the points are made at the author’s expense, showing that they are lessons learned the hard way. Each chapter also ends with a practical application. It keeps the book from purely being some thought exercise and gives the reader no excuse for not implementing these things in their lives. I read a chapter a day but honestly you could do a chapter a week/month and then focus on the practicum at the end of each chapter over the following days. I will probably do this on my next reading as there was a lot of good information to digest.
John is also an outspoken Christian but this book is not “in your face religious” and has something for everyone regardless of beliefs or creeds. He shares what he believes and why but does not force that viewpoint on the reader and offers information that can be applied no matter what belief system you adhere to. John’s definition of a good man lines up with Christian values, but you don’t have to be a Christian to know that it is good to love your wife or invest in the lives of those around you.
I’ve seen some people (who haven’t read the book) hating on it for being another book on how to be toxicity masculine but that’s not the theme of the book at all. They see warrior in the title and jump to conclusions without even taking the rest of the title (poet) into account. This book is about being a well rounded man. Being balanced and the best you can be. True, we do need more warriors in society. But that’s not all we need. I would advise you to read this book for yourself and decide. Don’t be put off by people who feel threatened because they read a title and didn’t bother to find out what the book is about. I promise you’ll walk away from this book encouraged and challenge to become the man you were made to be.
In a society that tells men they can either be soft and feminine or “toxically masculine”, it’s refreshing to find a book that shows there’s a balance needed. There’s a reason this book is resonating with so many men. It’s one I’m giving to all my friends and family and it’s one that I will definitely read over and over again in years to come.
I originally ordered it because I knew John Lovell from Warrior Poet Society and wanted to support his book. I expected to like it but I wasn’t prepared for how good this book ended up being.
This book blew me away. Looking at the table of contents, there were some chapters (like Face Death Before You Die and Learn to Dance) that I thought would be filler chapters that didn’t overly apply to me. Boy was I wrong. Those ended up being some of the most impactful chapters and ones that can only be described as life changing (not a term I throw around).
John’s writing style is also very enjoyable. It’s conversational yet also very readable with dad jokes sprinkled in that you can’t help but smile at. It’s a very humble book and many of the points are made at the author’s expense, showing that they are lessons learned the hard way. Each chapter also ends with a practical application. It keeps the book from purely being some thought exercise and gives the reader no excuse for not implementing these things in their lives. I read a chapter a day but honestly you could do a chapter a week/month and then focus on the practicum at the end of each chapter over the following days. I will probably do this on my next reading as there was a lot of good information to digest.
John is also an outspoken Christian but this book is not “in your face religious” and has something for everyone regardless of beliefs or creeds. He shares what he believes and why but does not force that viewpoint on the reader and offers information that can be applied no matter what belief system you adhere to. John’s definition of a good man lines up with Christian values, but you don’t have to be a Christian to know that it is good to love your wife or invest in the lives of those around you.
I’ve seen some people (who haven’t read the book) hating on it for being another book on how to be toxicity masculine but that’s not the theme of the book at all. They see warrior in the title and jump to conclusions without even taking the rest of the title (poet) into account. This book is about being a well rounded man. Being balanced and the best you can be. True, we do need more warriors in society. But that’s not all we need. I would advise you to read this book for yourself and decide. Don’t be put off by people who feel threatened because they read a title and didn’t bother to find out what the book is about. I promise you’ll walk away from this book encouraged and challenge to become the man you were made to be.
In a society that tells men they can either be soft and feminine or “toxically masculine”, it’s refreshing to find a book that shows there’s a balance needed. There’s a reason this book is resonating with so many men. It’s one I’m giving to all my friends and family and it’s one that I will definitely read over and over again in years to come.
February 17, 2024
Life-advice for men from a god-fearing, gun-slinging patriot; a heart-felt call for heroic masculinity; in itself a message worth sharing, but the packaging is too puerile, self-absorbed and religiously motivated to my taste. For a more nuanced narrative on healthy masculinity check out https://www.goodreads.com/review/show....
March 19, 2024
I think there's a lot of wisdom in this book. Much of the advice on manhood is biblical, and is supported by the principles of scripture, but these connections are not made explicit. Most of the advice is given a non-denominational, inclusivist spin. The author is clear in stating his personal conviction as a Christ-follower, but it seems in several places that he downplays the exclusivity of Christ to reach a broader audience with his message. It's possible this was a publisher decision; it just seems strange that a book on "Living Free and Dying Well" would only present the gospel as the best among many "Warrior Poet" lifestyle options.
Broadly speaking, I think the warrior poet description of manhood is helpful. It accounts for the broad spectrum of responsibilities men must carry out. I think all men have a tendency to lean more warrior, or more poet. Certainly, in my own experience, I have always leaned more to the poet side of the coin. So I was thankful for the challenges this book issued to call me to lean into the Warrior side, and grow into more of the man I can be.
My hope for a second edition would be to draw more on scripture. The principles are there in the book, just show that they're not original to the Warrior Poet Way. They come from Scripture, and are evidenced by men throughout. There was some of this, but more, more, more. Scripture on every page or I walk. Also, the last chapter took a strange twist into extreme doomsday prepper mode: Zombies and all. Thought that was odd. Don't do that.
Broadly speaking, I think the warrior poet description of manhood is helpful. It accounts for the broad spectrum of responsibilities men must carry out. I think all men have a tendency to lean more warrior, or more poet. Certainly, in my own experience, I have always leaned more to the poet side of the coin. So I was thankful for the challenges this book issued to call me to lean into the Warrior side, and grow into more of the man I can be.
My hope for a second edition would be to draw more on scripture. The principles are there in the book, just show that they're not original to the Warrior Poet Way. They come from Scripture, and are evidenced by men throughout. There was some of this, but more, more, more. Scripture on every page or I walk. Also, the last chapter took a strange twist into extreme doomsday prepper mode: Zombies and all. Thought that was odd. Don't do that.
July 22, 2023
I don’t really tend to write reviews, however I felt compelled to write one for this book. The Warrior Poet Way is by far one of the best books I have had the opportunity to read! I first bought the book on audible with the intention of just listening to the book and hoping to glean some wisdom. Shortly after starting the audio version (which I still recommend and finished listening to) switched to the text so I could dedicate more intentional time to the thoughts and wisdom that John put down on paper.
The writing style of the book was well thought out and well formatted with great breaks for a practical application opportunities.
The narration of the audio book was fantastic. John narrating his own work was a great choice and you can hear the passion he has for this topic in his voice as he narrates.
I believe all men young and old should buy a copy and read this book as it will help give them a better definition of what it means to be a man and who they are meant to be.
If you are on the fence take the plunge and buy the book. You will not be disappointed. And if you disagree with the author, it’s ok you are just wrong and you are entitled to your opinion.
The writing style of the book was well thought out and well formatted with great breaks for a practical application opportunities.
The narration of the audio book was fantastic. John narrating his own work was a great choice and you can hear the passion he has for this topic in his voice as he narrates.
I believe all men young and old should buy a copy and read this book as it will help give them a better definition of what it means to be a man and who they are meant to be.
If you are on the fence take the plunge and buy the book. You will not be disappointed. And if you disagree with the author, it’s ok you are just wrong and you are entitled to your opinion.
July 21, 2023
I grew up without a father; I’m now 33 and have two young boys myself and have been struggling with what kind of man I should be and what kind of men I’d like to guide them to be. In my struggling I came to two seemingly opposing ideas critical for manhood: strength for protecting and providing and goodness.
It blew me away when I found this book. It took my half baked ideas of what it is to be a man and laid out a proper foundation to be built upon. The book just rings true on the subject of masculinity. I wish I would have had it as a young man but it also came to me at a time I feel I needed it. Thank you John Lovell, you not only had a profound impact on me but also the type of father I will aspire to towards my boys.
It blew me away when I found this book. It took my half baked ideas of what it is to be a man and laid out a proper foundation to be built upon. The book just rings true on the subject of masculinity. I wish I would have had it as a young man but it also came to me at a time I feel I needed it. Thank you John Lovell, you not only had a profound impact on me but also the type of father I will aspire to towards my boys.
August 11, 2023
Flat out excellent. A must read for all men. John’s passion and commitment and conviction jump off every page. His stories are personal. His humor, hilarious. His logic, sound. His faith, authentic. The premises he sets forth regarding masculinity and manhood and the need for both Warrior and Poet to be balanced could not be more accurate or relevant. I will strongly recommend every man I know read this slowly, digest each chapter, discuss it seriously with others in their life and start now to implement its lessons. The Warrior Poet Society is a great tribe to partner with and join the ranks of. May Freedom be cherished, defended, and pursued in every sphere of a man’s life. Live free. Die well. And until then, spread this message.
May 29, 2024
I was hoping this book would have been better. I really like John Lovell and his warrior poet society. It's not that this book was bad, but I was disappointed. One thing I didn't like: John is a Christian, but it felt like he kept almost apologizing for that. I'm a Christian also, and I will not apologize for that. Maybe I'm overreacting to it. Maybe he was just leaving room for other people's ideals. I don't know, the message was good, the execution was so so.
August 2, 2023
A good book with a solid message. A little trite by this point in the game, but certainly one of the most authentic ways it's been presented. John Lovell is a vet who loves Jesus and wants you to take responsibility for your life. Society sucks but America rocks, women are terrifying and mysterious and must be protected at all costs, the government will eventually enslave you so dig a hole in your yard and fill it with canned beans and guns.
Objectively, all these things are true, and this is valuable advice. You've heard similar screeds from slightly center-right darlings (now conflated with open fascism) like Jordy P and the shrilly outraged Benjamin "Button" Shapiro. The difference between this book and their ethos is that John doesn't seem to be an asshole.
He's big into Jesus, he's big into benevolent sexism without overt chauvinism, he's big into being a prosocial member of the community, a competent father, and a man capable of killing other men with his bare hands. He suggests it's okay to be dangerous. You're supposed to be dangerous. You're supposed to rein in that danger. The combination of potential lethality and deliberately practiced discipline is the point of the whole Darwinian exercise of life, at least on this side of the y-chromosome.
I liked his differentiation between the three types of dangerous people, too. You might have heard it as the wolf-sheep-sheepdog trichotomy, that's a popular one. If you saw Team America World Police during your developmental years, I'm sure the dicks/pussies/assholes analogy is permanently seared into your frontal cortex.
I'm going to link it right now because you know what? It holds up.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32iCW...
Lovell's spin on this is the first type of dangerous people are villains. Dangerous because they like to be, irrelevant who's caught in the crossfire. No higher purpose. No involvement with Big Baby Jesus.
The second type are wimps, and they are worse. They let cowardice make their decisions, or avoid making decisions at all. Which, as we well know, is the same as making bad decisions, only without the honor of agency. They've so totally bought their own woe-is-me pity party that the delusion is at the wheel of their life, and they wind up doing things that, deep down, they know to be wrong because they've manufactured a plausible rationalization to cover up the fact they're ascaaaaared to act in any other way. Wimps are complicit bystanders to villains at best and opportunistic predators at worst, cowering behind their performative weakness like a shield. "Like pedophiles", says John.
And that leaves the third class, the warrior, or ideally the warrior-poet. Capable of violence, controlled enough to not do violence all the time.
To recap within Team America parameters, assholes/pussies/dicks.
The important distinction for Lovell is strategic application of warrior and of poet. You must be fearsome to your enemies and nice to your wife. If your kids are afraid of you instead of trying to hang out with you, you calibrated wrong and you are failing. There will be a time when you will be an emotional little bitch-boy. That's part of being human, and more to the point, it's part of masculinity. The soulless stoics and seething wrecks drive everyone else away. You can be the perfect murder robot in certain situations, when it's necessary, like at war, or in an active shooter scenario, or if the Redcoats demand lodging in your colonial homestead. When you are looking deeply into your wife's eyes, or playing Calvinball with the kids, or even petting a dog, it's not only okay to connect emotionally but it's necessary.
That's the main take-home of this book. John Lovell is talking to people confused by the frequently contradictory messages that Mean Ol' Society sends to men and boys. He parses the static for them and repackages it into a tidy little Michael Pollan soundbite: Be strong. Be kind. Go get baptized.
You could do worse than that, honestly.
Objectively, all these things are true, and this is valuable advice. You've heard similar screeds from slightly center-right darlings (now conflated with open fascism) like Jordy P and the shrilly outraged Benjamin "Button" Shapiro. The difference between this book and their ethos is that John doesn't seem to be an asshole.
He's big into Jesus, he's big into benevolent sexism without overt chauvinism, he's big into being a prosocial member of the community, a competent father, and a man capable of killing other men with his bare hands. He suggests it's okay to be dangerous. You're supposed to be dangerous. You're supposed to rein in that danger. The combination of potential lethality and deliberately practiced discipline is the point of the whole Darwinian exercise of life, at least on this side of the y-chromosome.
I liked his differentiation between the three types of dangerous people, too. You might have heard it as the wolf-sheep-sheepdog trichotomy, that's a popular one. If you saw Team America World Police during your developmental years, I'm sure the dicks/pussies/assholes analogy is permanently seared into your frontal cortex.
I'm going to link it right now because you know what? It holds up.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=32iCW...
Lovell's spin on this is the first type of dangerous people are villains. Dangerous because they like to be, irrelevant who's caught in the crossfire. No higher purpose. No involvement with Big Baby Jesus.
The second type are wimps, and they are worse. They let cowardice make their decisions, or avoid making decisions at all. Which, as we well know, is the same as making bad decisions, only without the honor of agency. They've so totally bought their own woe-is-me pity party that the delusion is at the wheel of their life, and they wind up doing things that, deep down, they know to be wrong because they've manufactured a plausible rationalization to cover up the fact they're ascaaaaared to act in any other way. Wimps are complicit bystanders to villains at best and opportunistic predators at worst, cowering behind their performative weakness like a shield. "Like pedophiles", says John.
And that leaves the third class, the warrior, or ideally the warrior-poet. Capable of violence, controlled enough to not do violence all the time.
To recap within Team America parameters, assholes/pussies/dicks.
The important distinction for Lovell is strategic application of warrior and of poet. You must be fearsome to your enemies and nice to your wife. If your kids are afraid of you instead of trying to hang out with you, you calibrated wrong and you are failing. There will be a time when you will be an emotional little bitch-boy. That's part of being human, and more to the point, it's part of masculinity. The soulless stoics and seething wrecks drive everyone else away. You can be the perfect murder robot in certain situations, when it's necessary, like at war, or in an active shooter scenario, or if the Redcoats demand lodging in your colonial homestead. When you are looking deeply into your wife's eyes, or playing Calvinball with the kids, or even petting a dog, it's not only okay to connect emotionally but it's necessary.
That's the main take-home of this book. John Lovell is talking to people confused by the frequently contradictory messages that Mean Ol' Society sends to men and boys. He parses the static for them and repackages it into a tidy little Michael Pollan soundbite: Be strong. Be kind. Go get baptized.
You could do worse than that, honestly.
March 2, 2025
I got the opportunity to hear John and his wife speak at the Great Homeschool Convention. I loved what he was saying so my husband and I got two autographed copies for my twin boys for when they are older.
I am not in the demographic for this book but I still took some stuff away from it for myself. I also listened to this on audio (I didn't want to ruin the boys books lol) and thoroughly enjoyed it in that format. So if you're more of an audiobook fan, this was a great one to listen to. But I wanted to check this out before I gave it to my sons.
I HIGHLY recommend this book for all boys/men. ESPECIALLY, if you align more with a warrior than a poet...or vice versa (aggressive/gentle). My husband is a warrior poet through and through. He is a gentle, loving person and he has that violent aggression controlled, willing to use it if the time ever calls for it. He is willing to do what he needs to defend others, especially his family. I will be making him listen to this book as he also loves what John speaks on.
Pick 👏🏻 this 👏🏻 one 👏🏻 up 👏🏻. Get it for your sons or husband. You'll be glad you did. :)
I am not in the demographic for this book but I still took some stuff away from it for myself. I also listened to this on audio (I didn't want to ruin the boys books lol) and thoroughly enjoyed it in that format. So if you're more of an audiobook fan, this was a great one to listen to. But I wanted to check this out before I gave it to my sons.
I HIGHLY recommend this book for all boys/men. ESPECIALLY, if you align more with a warrior than a poet...or vice versa (aggressive/gentle). My husband is a warrior poet through and through. He is a gentle, loving person and he has that violent aggression controlled, willing to use it if the time ever calls for it. He is willing to do what he needs to defend others, especially his family. I will be making him listen to this book as he also loves what John speaks on.
Pick 👏🏻 this 👏🏻 one 👏🏻 up 👏🏻. Get it for your sons or husband. You'll be glad you did. :)
February 5, 2025
A call to action for men drifting through the post-modern age. Might be a good starting point for some in that regard.
The book contains practical advice for being more self-sufficient, succeeding as a husband and father, and awakening one's inner warrior-poet.
My one gripe with the book (and with John Lovell's Warrior Poet Society as a whole) is that I think these ideas are expressed better from explicitly Christian sources. But I understand what Lovell is trying to do at the same time. Lovell is a Christian, and is not afraid to say it, but his WPS project seeks to teach men of all faiths, so he keeps his podcasts (and this book) relatively secular.
That is not to say his book or show is bad. I imagine many men (including Christian men) can, would, and will find what he has to say helpful, as I have.
The book contains practical advice for being more self-sufficient, succeeding as a husband and father, and awakening one's inner warrior-poet.
My one gripe with the book (and with John Lovell's Warrior Poet Society as a whole) is that I think these ideas are expressed better from explicitly Christian sources. But I understand what Lovell is trying to do at the same time. Lovell is a Christian, and is not afraid to say it, but his WPS project seeks to teach men of all faiths, so he keeps his podcasts (and this book) relatively secular.
That is not to say his book or show is bad. I imagine many men (including Christian men) can, would, and will find what he has to say helpful, as I have.
August 17, 2024
An excellent portrayal of what true masculinity is and the art of "living free and dying well." This reminds me of Eldredge's Wild At Heart but grittier coming from a former Ranger. For you men who seek to overcome the perverted view of masculinity prevalent in this society, this is the book.
July 24, 2023
I absolutely adored this book! There were rumors floating around that John was working on a book, and when I discovered that he had indeed written one, my excitement was unparalleled. I knew that this man had profound insights to share, especially when it comes to following Christ and embodying His qualities. In his book, he beautifully expressed his longing for a male role model, someone to inspire and guide him, and he found that quintessential example in Christ Himself.
One aspect of the book that I particularly appreciated was the practicum. It provided tangible examples of the actions we should be taking in our lives. With each chapter, John skillfully offered practical steps that we can apply, and I found it incredibly enriching. It allowed me to actively incorporate these teachings into my own life, making me strive to be a better man, a better future husband, and a better future father.
Although the book was relatively short, it left me yearning for more. I eagerly await future works from John, as I know they will be just as enlightening and impactful as this one.
One aspect of the book that I particularly appreciated was the practicum. It provided tangible examples of the actions we should be taking in our lives. With each chapter, John skillfully offered practical steps that we can apply, and I found it incredibly enriching. It allowed me to actively incorporate these teachings into my own life, making me strive to be a better man, a better future husband, and a better future father.
Although the book was relatively short, it left me yearning for more. I eagerly await future works from John, as I know they will be just as enlightening and impactful as this one.
January 7, 2024
Was debating what to give this book but then realized I gave fourth wing 4.7 and this was way better than that
February 4, 2024
Must read for men of all ages.
March 15, 2024
(4/5)
Overall it was a good book.
The message, though I can’t say I agreed with all of it, is a good one and the intention is right.
I’m happy I read it.
Overall it was a good book.
The message, though I can’t say I agreed with all of it, is a good one and the intention is right.
I’m happy I read it.
May 1, 2024
Great book! Fantastic job John. I just got my 14 year old son to read it. The world needs more War Poets💪🏼❤️
July 29, 2023
A great reminder of what’s really worth living for.
July 22, 2023
Excellent book. A fantastic staring point for how to be the type of man that America needs, how to be a lover of our families, and how to develop the mind set of defending the values important to you.
July 24, 2023
Timeless wisdom at the right time.
July 27, 2023
This book is incredible. A true testament to being a better man, father, husband, follower in Christ and person. I listened to the Audiobook while I ran and every word resonated with me. I would highly recommend this to anyone and everyone. Truly a powerful journey.
December 22, 2023
Phenomenal book. While it's directed toward men, I firmly believe every wife and every mother of boys would benefit from this collection of wisdom.
Read it. Now.
Read it. Now.
November 11, 2023
I rarely write reviews. A book must leave me with a lasting message before I will leave it with a lasting message.
I am also a woman who revels in femininity and all the things that have traditionally defined that.
So, what message does a book about masculinity give me that is worth my time in writing a message?
John Lovell decided not to be a “nice guy” who is useless when his country or family needs a protector. Other men have professed to do this. We women call them “toxic”.
But Lovell also decided not to bring the warrior portion of himself home. He reveals the reason he trains for war is to protect what he loves. The poet side, as he calls it, romances, listens, tenderly holds his child, and treasures his wife. “Treasures” can bring visions of a man condescending to his wife he deems emotionally and intellectually inferior to himself. Yet, that’s not how Lovell seems to do it.
While reading this book, I visited the Warrior Poet YouTube channel. I skipped over the gun and prepping tutorials. I went to the videos of him with his wife sharing philosophies of marriage. She is a treasured woman, not because he treats her as some fragile doll. She is treasured because she’s the only one he allows on his team. And together, they can be an unstoppable force for good in their family and the world.
We feminine women need masculine men, and masculine men need us. I don’t agree 100% with Mr. Lovell (no thank you to stocking up on vodka and spicy mustard, Sir). But this book is not a work of fiction. I married a Warrior Poet, and together, we are living free. When it comes time to die, we hope to do that well, too. Because the philosophy we share must with Team Mr. And Mrs. Lovell is their Hero and Reason for it all. But then, that would be a spoiler, wouldn’t it?
I am also a woman who revels in femininity and all the things that have traditionally defined that.
So, what message does a book about masculinity give me that is worth my time in writing a message?
John Lovell decided not to be a “nice guy” who is useless when his country or family needs a protector. Other men have professed to do this. We women call them “toxic”.
But Lovell also decided not to bring the warrior portion of himself home. He reveals the reason he trains for war is to protect what he loves. The poet side, as he calls it, romances, listens, tenderly holds his child, and treasures his wife. “Treasures” can bring visions of a man condescending to his wife he deems emotionally and intellectually inferior to himself. Yet, that’s not how Lovell seems to do it.
While reading this book, I visited the Warrior Poet YouTube channel. I skipped over the gun and prepping tutorials. I went to the videos of him with his wife sharing philosophies of marriage. She is a treasured woman, not because he treats her as some fragile doll. She is treasured because she’s the only one he allows on his team. And together, they can be an unstoppable force for good in their family and the world.
We feminine women need masculine men, and masculine men need us. I don’t agree 100% with Mr. Lovell (no thank you to stocking up on vodka and spicy mustard, Sir). But this book is not a work of fiction. I married a Warrior Poet, and together, we are living free. When it comes time to die, we hope to do that well, too. Because the philosophy we share must with Team Mr. And Mrs. Lovell is their Hero and Reason for it all. But then, that would be a spoiler, wouldn’t it?
August 8, 2023
My husband I both loved this book! It was definitely tailored toward men, but was a super interesting read as a wife of man who is a warrior in a world trying to steal warriorship from men. I don't think I lost anything from the book being tailored that way and think women will still enjoy it and get a lot out of it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 18, 2023
This overly simplistic and religiously biased book fails to offer any insightful perspectives. Its lack of depth and reliance on stereotypes make it a disappointing read. The author's inability to grasp the complexities of the issues at hand results in a oversimplistic narrative with little added value.
April 18, 2025
This book holds no punches. It’s a needed message in preserving all that is right about masculinity and manhood. Men should be dangerous but measured and gentle. Here is a summary of the main ideas:
Part I: The Warrior
This section focuses on cultivating the physical and mental strength required to be a protector and leader, emphasizing discipline, courage, and readiness.
• Chapter 1: The Worst Enemy Is Yourself Lovell argues that the greatest obstacle to a fulfilling life is one’s own fears, doubts, and lack of discipline. He introduces the concept of the Warrior Poet, a man who balances strength and gentleness, and stresses the need to confront internal struggles to unlock potential. The chapter likely includes military anecdotes to illustrate overcoming personal limitations. Practicum: Exercises to identify and address personal weaknesses, such as journaling fears or setting small, actionable goals.
• Chapter 2: Embrace the Suck This chapter emphasizes resilience in the face of hardship, drawing from military training where soldiers learn to endure grueling conditions. Lovell encourages men to push through discomfort to build mental and physical toughness, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Practicum: Practical steps like committing to a physically demanding task (e.g., a daily workout) or practicing perseverance in a tough situation.
• Chapter 3: Tyranny-Proof Your Home Lovell discusses the warrior’s role as a protector, offering practical advice on safeguarding family and home. This includes physical security measures (e.g., self-defense training, home fortification) and fostering a mindset of vigilance against external threats, including societal or governmental overreach. Practicum: Steps to assess and improve home security or learn basic self-defense skills.
• Chapter 4: Train Like Your Life Depends on It The focus here is on physical and mental preparedness, urging men to maintain fitness and skills to handle crises. Lovell likely shares stories from his Ranger days to underscore the importance of consistent training. The chapter emphasizes discipline as a cornerstone of the warrior mindset. Practicum: Create a fitness regimen or learn a new skill, such as marksmanship or first aid.
Part II: The Poet
This section explores the emotional, creative, and relational aspects of masculinity, encouraging men to cultivate compassion, vulnerability, and purpose.
• Chapter 5: Woo the Right Woman Lovell provides guidance on building meaningful romantic relationships, emphasizing respect, intentionality, and emotional intelligence. He likely draws from his own marriage to illustrate how to balance strength with tenderness in partnerships. Practicum: Exercises like writing a letter to a partner or practicing active listening to deepen relationships.
• Chapter 6: Learn to Dance Contrary to initial reader skepticism, this chapter is described as life-changing, suggesting it metaphorically addresses embracing vulnerability and grace in life’s challenges. Lovell may use dancing as a symbol for navigating relationships or personal growth with confidence and humility. Practicum: Try a new, uncomfortable activity (e.g., dancing, public speaking) to build confidence.
• Chapter 7: Cultivate Emotional Intelligence This chapter explores the importance of empathy and self-awareness, encouraging men to connect deeply with others. Lovell likely contrasts the stoic warrior with the poet’s ability to express and understand emotions, using interviews with other men to highlight this balance. Practicum: Practice empathy through conversations or reflect on emotional triggers.
• Chapter 8: Find Your Purpose Lovell stresses that a meaningful life requires a purpose larger than oneself. He encourages men to identify their mission—whether through faith, family, or community—and align their actions with it. The chapter may include spiritual reflections, given Lovell’s Christian perspective. Practicum: Write a personal mission statement or volunteer for a cause.
Part III: The Way
This section integrates the warrior and poet identities, offering a roadmap for living a balanced, purposeful life while confronting mortality and legacy.
• Chapter 9: Face Death Before You Die Described as profoundly impactful, this chapter urges readers to confront mortality to live with intention. Lovell suggests that accepting death’s inevitability clarifies priorities and reduces fear, possibly sharing a near-death experience from his military service. Practicum: Write a “farewell note” to loved ones or meditate on life’s priorities.
• Chapter 10: Build a Community Lovell emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded men for support and accountability. He likely advocates for mentorship and camaraderie, drawing from his Warrior Poet Society. Practicum: Join or start a men’s group to foster connection and growth.
• Chapter 11: Pass on the Warrior Poet Values The final chapter focuses on legacy, urging men to mentor the next generation. Lovell discusses instilling values of courage, compassion, and truth in children or mentees, emphasizing fatherly leadership. Practicum: Engage in mentorship, such as teaching a skill to a young person or modeling integrity.
Part I: The Warrior
This section focuses on cultivating the physical and mental strength required to be a protector and leader, emphasizing discipline, courage, and readiness.
• Chapter 1: The Worst Enemy Is Yourself Lovell argues that the greatest obstacle to a fulfilling life is one’s own fears, doubts, and lack of discipline. He introduces the concept of the Warrior Poet, a man who balances strength and gentleness, and stresses the need to confront internal struggles to unlock potential. The chapter likely includes military anecdotes to illustrate overcoming personal limitations. Practicum: Exercises to identify and address personal weaknesses, such as journaling fears or setting small, actionable goals.
• Chapter 2: Embrace the Suck This chapter emphasizes resilience in the face of hardship, drawing from military training where soldiers learn to endure grueling conditions. Lovell encourages men to push through discomfort to build mental and physical toughness, viewing challenges as opportunities for growth. Practicum: Practical steps like committing to a physically demanding task (e.g., a daily workout) or practicing perseverance in a tough situation.
• Chapter 3: Tyranny-Proof Your Home Lovell discusses the warrior’s role as a protector, offering practical advice on safeguarding family and home. This includes physical security measures (e.g., self-defense training, home fortification) and fostering a mindset of vigilance against external threats, including societal or governmental overreach. Practicum: Steps to assess and improve home security or learn basic self-defense skills.
• Chapter 4: Train Like Your Life Depends on It The focus here is on physical and mental preparedness, urging men to maintain fitness and skills to handle crises. Lovell likely shares stories from his Ranger days to underscore the importance of consistent training. The chapter emphasizes discipline as a cornerstone of the warrior mindset. Practicum: Create a fitness regimen or learn a new skill, such as marksmanship or first aid.
Part II: The Poet
This section explores the emotional, creative, and relational aspects of masculinity, encouraging men to cultivate compassion, vulnerability, and purpose.
• Chapter 5: Woo the Right Woman Lovell provides guidance on building meaningful romantic relationships, emphasizing respect, intentionality, and emotional intelligence. He likely draws from his own marriage to illustrate how to balance strength with tenderness in partnerships. Practicum: Exercises like writing a letter to a partner or practicing active listening to deepen relationships.
• Chapter 6: Learn to Dance Contrary to initial reader skepticism, this chapter is described as life-changing, suggesting it metaphorically addresses embracing vulnerability and grace in life’s challenges. Lovell may use dancing as a symbol for navigating relationships or personal growth with confidence and humility. Practicum: Try a new, uncomfortable activity (e.g., dancing, public speaking) to build confidence.
• Chapter 7: Cultivate Emotional Intelligence This chapter explores the importance of empathy and self-awareness, encouraging men to connect deeply with others. Lovell likely contrasts the stoic warrior with the poet’s ability to express and understand emotions, using interviews with other men to highlight this balance. Practicum: Practice empathy through conversations or reflect on emotional triggers.
• Chapter 8: Find Your Purpose Lovell stresses that a meaningful life requires a purpose larger than oneself. He encourages men to identify their mission—whether through faith, family, or community—and align their actions with it. The chapter may include spiritual reflections, given Lovell’s Christian perspective. Practicum: Write a personal mission statement or volunteer for a cause.
Part III: The Way
This section integrates the warrior and poet identities, offering a roadmap for living a balanced, purposeful life while confronting mortality and legacy.
• Chapter 9: Face Death Before You Die Described as profoundly impactful, this chapter urges readers to confront mortality to live with intention. Lovell suggests that accepting death’s inevitability clarifies priorities and reduces fear, possibly sharing a near-death experience from his military service. Practicum: Write a “farewell note” to loved ones or meditate on life’s priorities.
• Chapter 10: Build a Community Lovell emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded men for support and accountability. He likely advocates for mentorship and camaraderie, drawing from his Warrior Poet Society. Practicum: Join or start a men’s group to foster connection and growth.
• Chapter 11: Pass on the Warrior Poet Values The final chapter focuses on legacy, urging men to mentor the next generation. Lovell discusses instilling values of courage, compassion, and truth in children or mentees, emphasizing fatherly leadership. Practicum: Engage in mentorship, such as teaching a skill to a young person or modeling integrity.
December 17, 2023
This is a good book that emplores men to live a life of masculinity that is balanced as fierce warriors for good who also love equally as fiercely. Lovell looks to affirm men in their natural roles as protectors, providers, lovers, teachers, mentors and more.
The strengths of the book are that Lovell lays out an ethic and philosophy of manhood that is clear and contrasted with the weakened, neutered version of men encouraged by today's culture. His vision of masculinity is practical and something men should aspire to. He presents a philosophical argument for manhood that is distinct, based on natural law, and has purpose. He does this while remaining connected with practical life and relationships rather than merely being a philosophical, abstract book on masculinity. Lovell looks to back up the practical with philosophical and theological truth.
A couple weaknesses are that he does not much connect his vision of manhood with a historical conversation of masculinity. He does point to historical examples at times, but he doesnt attempt to support his ideas at length with the historical, ethical, or philosophical conversation. This may be because the intended audience is a broad everyman, but it also leaves something to be desired in terms of persuading skeptics of his positions. Also, it seemed like the chapter called How to Stay Free seemed out of place. He seemed to lay out a clear vision of masculinity with purpose as husband and as father in the prior chapters, but then the connection seemed weak to the practical recommendation of self sufficiency in food, water and protection. Lastly, John Lovell is a Christian and clearly bases his worldview on Biblical principal. As a fellow Christian who agrees with basically everything he said in this book, I found that his fundamental reasons at the base of his propositions of masculine warrior poets was weak. Jesus is his archetypal warrior poet but the book never clearly explains how. He just says that generally "faith" is the grounding or purpose of this masculine ethic, but how does Jesus exemplify this? I would have liked more explanation on this grounding a creation-ethic of masculinity as a warrior-poet exemplified in the character of Jesus. Realizing that the target audience is broader than his Christian readers, I felt like he could have specifically laid out the Christian theological ground of his ethic clearer. An opportunity was missed there I thought.
Overall the book was an excellent encouragement for men of like mind or those in search of a practical masculine definition to apply in their own lives and relationships. It probably wont persuade sceptics or leftists though. It is an excellent book for young men or teens in their reading on manhood. If one watches Lovell's YouTube videos or subscribes to the Warrior Poet Society Network, one will find the majority of the information in this book there also.
The strengths of the book are that Lovell lays out an ethic and philosophy of manhood that is clear and contrasted with the weakened, neutered version of men encouraged by today's culture. His vision of masculinity is practical and something men should aspire to. He presents a philosophical argument for manhood that is distinct, based on natural law, and has purpose. He does this while remaining connected with practical life and relationships rather than merely being a philosophical, abstract book on masculinity. Lovell looks to back up the practical with philosophical and theological truth.
A couple weaknesses are that he does not much connect his vision of manhood with a historical conversation of masculinity. He does point to historical examples at times, but he doesnt attempt to support his ideas at length with the historical, ethical, or philosophical conversation. This may be because the intended audience is a broad everyman, but it also leaves something to be desired in terms of persuading skeptics of his positions. Also, it seemed like the chapter called How to Stay Free seemed out of place. He seemed to lay out a clear vision of masculinity with purpose as husband and as father in the prior chapters, but then the connection seemed weak to the practical recommendation of self sufficiency in food, water and protection. Lastly, John Lovell is a Christian and clearly bases his worldview on Biblical principal. As a fellow Christian who agrees with basically everything he said in this book, I found that his fundamental reasons at the base of his propositions of masculine warrior poets was weak. Jesus is his archetypal warrior poet but the book never clearly explains how. He just says that generally "faith" is the grounding or purpose of this masculine ethic, but how does Jesus exemplify this? I would have liked more explanation on this grounding a creation-ethic of masculinity as a warrior-poet exemplified in the character of Jesus. Realizing that the target audience is broader than his Christian readers, I felt like he could have specifically laid out the Christian theological ground of his ethic clearer. An opportunity was missed there I thought.
Overall the book was an excellent encouragement for men of like mind or those in search of a practical masculine definition to apply in their own lives and relationships. It probably wont persuade sceptics or leftists though. It is an excellent book for young men or teens in their reading on manhood. If one watches Lovell's YouTube videos or subscribes to the Warrior Poet Society Network, one will find the majority of the information in this book there also.
December 16, 2024
I'm giving the book 4 stars, but I must admit I have mixed thoughts.
If you have never heard of the author John Lovell or his Warrior Poet Society and have limited exposure to his philosophy and approach, this book is 4 stars and is probably for you.
It is easy to read.
It is easy to follow and learn from.
It has convenient "Practicum" conclusions of his chapters (brief suggestions on how to practice/develop/train the points he was trying to communicate)
If you are familiar with the author and/or you already do a lot a reading though, the book is fine, but perhaps not necessarily directed at you. I enjoyed the book, but found sections simplistic (that perhaps is not the right word, but the author tackles/summarizes/projects interpretations across a wide variety of complex topics and histories. I do not necessarily disagree with many or most of his summaries, but readers not necessarily convinced by his summary of a situation a) may not be convinced of his subsequent conclusions and/or b) are not given a lot of depth (or references) to look further into how he reached his conclusions. (A reference list and recommended book list I think could have improved matters.)
To be fair to the author, his choices involve trade-offs that are dealer's choice: more depth and more complexity would perhaps have made the book harder to read, and keeping the book very readable makes sense to those who are most likely to read his book (people who are at least somewhat familiar with the author and share his viewpoints).
I have no argument with the basic content (and certainly the overall pre-text) for the book. For readers of this review detecting at least a hint of hesitancy in my recommendations: I did not get too much that is *new*, and not much that is *in depth*, from my starting point. (Readers most likely to read the book are ones that already mostly agree with the author's viewpoints. Readers new to the viewpoints might not be convinced because while there is tremendous substance and depth to the reasons for the author's viewpoints, that depth is not the focus of the book. )
Anyways, an enjoyable read.
And regardless of my minor quibbles, the Warrior Poet Way is a good pathway to follow.
If you have never heard of the author John Lovell or his Warrior Poet Society and have limited exposure to his philosophy and approach, this book is 4 stars and is probably for you.
It is easy to read.
It is easy to follow and learn from.
It has convenient "Practicum" conclusions of his chapters (brief suggestions on how to practice/develop/train the points he was trying to communicate)
If you are familiar with the author and/or you already do a lot a reading though, the book is fine, but perhaps not necessarily directed at you. I enjoyed the book, but found sections simplistic (that perhaps is not the right word, but the author tackles/summarizes/projects interpretations across a wide variety of complex topics and histories. I do not necessarily disagree with many or most of his summaries, but readers not necessarily convinced by his summary of a situation a) may not be convinced of his subsequent conclusions and/or b) are not given a lot of depth (or references) to look further into how he reached his conclusions. (A reference list and recommended book list I think could have improved matters.)
To be fair to the author, his choices involve trade-offs that are dealer's choice: more depth and more complexity would perhaps have made the book harder to read, and keeping the book very readable makes sense to those who are most likely to read his book (people who are at least somewhat familiar with the author and share his viewpoints).
I have no argument with the basic content (and certainly the overall pre-text) for the book. For readers of this review detecting at least a hint of hesitancy in my recommendations: I did not get too much that is *new*, and not much that is *in depth*, from my starting point. (Readers most likely to read the book are ones that already mostly agree with the author's viewpoints. Readers new to the viewpoints might not be convinced because while there is tremendous substance and depth to the reasons for the author's viewpoints, that depth is not the focus of the book. )
Anyways, an enjoyable read.
And regardless of my minor quibbles, the Warrior Poet Way is a good pathway to follow.
July 27, 2024
I wholeheartedly agree with the author that men need to face, engage, and integrate their fierce defender and “warrior” self (though I believe ALL humans have this as well). My whole life my aim has been to be strong and tender, tough and gentle. This is a teaching that is greatly needed in our world.
However, he misses the point ENTIRELY. This book is not about being a warrior poet, as much as I hate this phrase it’s more about being a Christian Nationalist. The only ways he seems to be able to communicate what a warrior poet actually is is by pushing the paradigm of a conservative, evangelical Christian defender of freedom.
By the way, Jesus didn’t defend freedoms. He serves people. He stood against the religious elite who were barring the people’s way to God and to mercy, but he never once spoke or worked toward overthrowing any “bad guys” like the oppressors from Rome. He never saw enemies but individuals on whom to show compassion and self-sacrificing love…while still speaking hard truths. The author calls himself a Christian, but he sounds more like a conservative American conspiracist.
For the record, I hate a culture that spends its time telling each other what they can and can’t say. Those circles the author refers to as those who “want to take your freedoms from you” drive me absolutely insane because they too push their values and paradigms on others aggressively and without wisdom. That’s why I wanted so badly to like this book, but he too committed the same crime as those he would call “enemies.”
This book has a great aim, but can’t get out of its own way to see the bigger truth. I actually hated reading it because men (and the whole world) deserve better than fighters who get offended every time they’re told they can’t or shouldn’t say something.
Go deeper than that. “Real men” are so much more.
However, he misses the point ENTIRELY. This book is not about being a warrior poet, as much as I hate this phrase it’s more about being a Christian Nationalist. The only ways he seems to be able to communicate what a warrior poet actually is is by pushing the paradigm of a conservative, evangelical Christian defender of freedom.
By the way, Jesus didn’t defend freedoms. He serves people. He stood against the religious elite who were barring the people’s way to God and to mercy, but he never once spoke or worked toward overthrowing any “bad guys” like the oppressors from Rome. He never saw enemies but individuals on whom to show compassion and self-sacrificing love…while still speaking hard truths. The author calls himself a Christian, but he sounds more like a conservative American conspiracist.
For the record, I hate a culture that spends its time telling each other what they can and can’t say. Those circles the author refers to as those who “want to take your freedoms from you” drive me absolutely insane because they too push their values and paradigms on others aggressively and without wisdom. That’s why I wanted so badly to like this book, but he too committed the same crime as those he would call “enemies.”
This book has a great aim, but can’t get out of its own way to see the bigger truth. I actually hated reading it because men (and the whole world) deserve better than fighters who get offended every time they’re told they can’t or shouldn’t say something.
Go deeper than that. “Real men” are so much more.
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