Mysticism in American Literature: Thoreau's Quest and Whitman's Self

OPEN THE HEART OF SELF-DISCOVERY through the lives and profound works of Henry David Thoreau and Walt Whitman. This first of its kind overview celebrates the spiritual importance of these two influential American writers of the 19th century. Notable passages from Thoreau's Walden and Whitman's poem "Song of Myself" are explained from a mystical standpoint—the only way we can we truly understand their deeper message. When we share with these men of
letters their wisdom and strengths along with their faults, our own evolution advances. This book serves to open the heart of self-discovery for readers seeking their own self-understanding.

With a Ph.D. in American literature and a strong experiential background in the field of mysticism, Paul Hourihan is uniquely qualified to write this book. He was a serious student of the world's mystical traditions and committed to the spiritual path for over 45 years. For 15 years he taught dozens of courses and gave many lectures on the subjects of great mystics and mysticism in Ontario, Canada.

By combining his lifelong passion for literature and mysticism in this work, Dr. Hourihan, an award-winning author, gives us an insightful view of two of America's own literary mystics.

Recommended for religious collections by the Library Journal (May/04).