The Unquiet Monk: Thomas Merton's Questing Faith

Overview

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Thomas Merton (1915-1968) the Trappist monk, spiritual writer, and social critic, remains one of the most influential religious figures of our time. From a cloistered monastery in Kentucky he spoke to the spiritual and social concerns of the world, offering a voice of conscience, sanity, and compassion. His fascinating life and spiritual wisdom continue to find an audience among spiritual seekers of all kinds.

Here, Michael Higgins offers a fresh interpretation of Merton’s complex and multivalent genius. Drawing in part on interviews with those who knew him, Higgins explores the story of Merton’s life, his work as a poet and writer, his prophetic response to war and social disorder, his contemplative response to the human condition, and his forays into interreligious dialogue.

For those just discovering Merton as well as his multitude of admirers, The Unquiet Monk offers a unique portrait of a universal spiritual master.

A distinguished scholar and radio documentarian for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Michael W. Higgins is author of many books, including Genius Born of Anguish: The Life and Legacy of Henri Nouwen (Paulist 2012) and Thomas Merton: Faithful Visionary (Liturgical 2014). Former President and Chancellor of St. Jerome’s College, Waterloo, Canada, he is currently Vice President for Catholic Mission and Identity at Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, Connecticut.