Thomas Merton: Essential Writings
edited by Christine M. Bochen
From the 2000 paperback edition (Orbis Books):
“An engaging selection of texts essential for understanding Merton, Thomas Merton: Essential Writings sparkles with many bits of Merton wisdom heretofore known only to a few. It may well become the standard anthology for Merton courses and study groups. Highly recommended.”
—William H. Shannon, Founding President, International Merton Society
Thomas Merton (1915-1968), the Trappist monk and author, remains one of the most influential spiritual guides of the twentieth century. Beginning with his autobiography, The Seven Storey Mountain, and through scores of other books, Merton’s work reflects a living encounter between the traditions of Christian wisdom and the burning questions of the modern world: war and peace, the quest for meaning in the face of absurdity, and the need for dialogue with religious traditions of the East.
With a substantial introduction, Thomas Merton includes a broad range of Merton’s writings, including his letters, and highlights his threefold call: to prayer, to compassion, and to unity. It offers the essential writings of one of the greatest spiritual teachers of our time.
Editor Christine M. Bochen is professor of religious studies at Nazareth College, Rochester, New York. She has edited The Courage of Truth, one volume of Merton’s collected letters, and Learning To Love, the sixth volume of his journals.
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