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The Art of Solitude

Audiobook
1 of 2 copies available
1 of 2 copies available

When world renowned Buddhist writer Stephen Batchelor turned 60, he took a sabbatical from his teaching and turned his attention to solitude, a practice integral to the meditative traditions he has long studied and taught. He aimed to venture more deeply into solitude, discovering its full extent and depth.

This beautiful literary collage documents his multifaceted explorations. Spending time in remote places, appreciating and making art, practicing meditation and participating in retreats, drinking peyote and ayahuasca, and training himself to keep an open, questioning mind have all contributed to Batchelor's ability to be simultaneously alone and at ease. Mixed in with his personal narrative are inspiring stories from solitude's devoted practitioners, from the Buddha to Montaigne, and from Vermeer to Agnes Martin.

In a hyperconnected world that is at the same time plagued by social isolation, this audio book shows how to enjoy the inescapable solitude that is at the heart of human life.

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    • AudioFile Magazine
      If you are struggling with isolation during the pandemic, the latest audiobook by renowned Buddhist writer Stephen Batchelor can help. The author recounts how his 60th birthday sparked his intense interest in studying solitude. Listeners follow Batchelor's thoughts and reflections while he seeks out solitude in the wilderness, on meditation retreats, and through the process of creating art. Batchelor confronts himself in new ways through the use of hallucinogens like peyote and ayahuasca. The contemplative nature of the text is amplified by the gentle pacing of Batchelor's narration. He encourages listeners to lean into, rather than struggle against, the experience of solitude. By the audiobook's end, listeners will understand how transformative being alone can be. J.T. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine

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  • English

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