A Life in Letters: The Essential Collection

by William H Shannon, William H. Shannon (Editor), Christine M. Bochen (Editor)

Thomas Merton (1915-1968) was one of the most influential spiritual writers of modern times. A Trappist monk, peace and civil rights activist, and widely-praised literary figure, he was also one of the most prolific and provocative letter writers of the twentieth century. His letters (those written both by him and to him), archived at the Thomas Merton Studies Center in Kentucky, number more than ten thousand. For Merton, letters were not just a vehicle for exchanging information, but his primary means for initiating, maintaining, and deepening relationships. Letter-writing was a personal act of self-revelation and communication. His letters offer a unique lens through which we relive the spiritual and social upheavals of the twentieth century, while offering wisdom that is still relevant for our world today.

Genres: Spirituality, Religion, Theology, Biography, Philosophy, Cultural, Literature

402 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2008

Reviews

[Ephrem Arcement · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderfully assembled collection of Merton's letters! These letters are much more than, "Hey, how you're doing?" Great personal sensitivity and concern mixed with erudite insights and questions exploring a vast range of topics characterize Merton's correspondences. Makes me wish I would have written more letters in my life...and makes me realize what we're losing by relying on quick emails! Merton, pray for us!

[Daniel Klawitter · Rating 4 out of 5]

"To believe only in systems and statements and not in people is an evasion, a betrayal of love. Woe to us when we are merely orthodox, and reject human beings."