Original Self: Living with Paradox and Originality

In Original Self, spiritual pioneer Thomas Moore guides readers back to their God-given personalities through fifty heart-lifting meditations. This inspiring collection offers fresh interpretations of living with originality rather than conformity, presenting multidimensional portraits of the creative self and different angles from which to top one's primal emotions and possibilities. Learn what it means to live from the burning essence of the heart, with the creativity that comes from allowing the soul to blossom in its own colors and shapes.

With his usual grace and insight, Moore counters the prevailing assumptions of the day and offers strikingly unorthodox views on what is virtuous and healthy, opening up possibilities for a renewal of the way we live socially and in our private lives.

One of the most renowned writers on spirtituality in the world today, Thomas Moore, offers 50 fresh interpretations of living with originality rather than with conformity -- opening up creative ways for renewal in our lives. Moore's views on how we should conduct ourselves socially and personally may be unorthodox, but his meditations fill our lives with passion, tenderness, and tolerance. Two-tone illustrations.

In Original Self, spiritual pioneer Thomas Moore guides readers back to their God-given personalities through fifty heart-lifting meditations. This inspiring collection offers fresh interpretations of living with originality rather than conformity, presenting multidimensional portraits of the creative self and different angles from which to top one's primal emotions and possibilities. Learn what it means to live from the burning essence of the heart, with the creativity that comes from allowing the soul to blossom in its own colors and shapes.

With his usual grace and insight, Moore counters the prevailing assumptions of the day and offers strikingly unorthodox views on what is virtuous and healthy, opening up possibilities for a renewal of the way we live socially and in our private lives.

Publishers Weekly

Cynics may roll their eyes at the publication of another book by Moore--eventually, they will imagine, he'll saturate his market. But this new, slender volume from the bestselling author of Care of the Soul deserves a wide readership. Indeed, in a rare reversal of the usual publishing pattern, this offering is much more satisfying than the books that made Moore famous. This may be, in part, because it is short; Moore does not fall into the trap here of repeating the same point. The 50 or so short reflections that comprise the book each open with a quotation and then an aphorism of Moore's own making. Emily Dickinson's famous "I'm Nobody! Who are you?" is followed by "The project of being a self is the surest way to feel like a person." A line from the Song of Songs precedes "Our deep human sexuality will be fulfilled only when we discover that the lover we seek is divine and beyond finding." Then come Moore's essays, some of which echo themes from his earlier books--e.g., the soul (or lack of it) is central to modern malaise, and we should seize the moment while still seeking the transcendent. Best of all is the art: a woodcut by Joan Hanley graces each essay. Presented in an unusual and attractive square format, this may well prove to be the rare gift book--and the rare Moore title--with substance. (Mar.) Copyright 2000 Cahners Business Information.|

Thomas Moore was a monk in a Catholic religious order for twelve years and has degrees in theology, musicology, and philosophy. A former professor of psychology, he is the author of Care of the Soul, Soul Mates, The Re-Enchantment of Everyday Life, The Education of the Heart, The Soul of Sex, and Original Self. He lives in New Hampshire with his wife and two children.