United States. Department of Agriculture. National Agricultural Library.

This book is a collection of excerpts from Thomas Merton's writings, arranged in four parts so as to parallel the journey of a seeking soul in the modern world. "Real and False Selves" distinguishes between our real selves, a deep religious mystery known entirely only to God, and the identities we take on in order to function in society. "The World We Live In" provides a spiritual context to modern life, moving from a stark rejection of its empty promises to a deep compassion for its tragic limitations. "Antidotes to Illusion" reflects on contemplative practices that can serve as the allies of our "real selves" in the battle against illusion: silence, solitude, meditation, prayer, charity, and faith. "Love in Action" explores the role of the contemplative in the modern age and the challenges and pitfalls of living a life of active love. Merton critiques a society driven by technology and rampant acquisition, the politics of "good versus evil," and the self-deluding complacency of the spiritual "lifestyle."--Publisher's description.

Learn about how grasshoppers make their chirp noises.

An autobiographical novel of the 1960s takes readers on a tour of American life during this tumultuous time, introducing "cameos" by Barry Goldwater, Ayn Rand, and Robert Welch of the John Birch Society.