Thoreau’s Quest

OPEN YOUR HEART TO SELF-DISCOVERY through the Profound Life and Works of Henry David Thoreau

“At a time like this, Dr. Hourihan performs a valuable service by his courageous reaffirmation of what is of permanent value in the life and works of one of the most original minds in American literature.”

Dr. V. K. Chari, author of Whitman in the Light of Vedantic Mysticism

Much has been written about Henry David Thoreau as a prominent writer, and naturalist, but much less research has been done regarding his spirituality, which made the writing of his classic work, Walden forceful and unique.

This book encompasses the Thoreau half of the award-winning study Mysticism in American Literature: Thoreau’s Quest and Whitman’s Self by Paul Hourihan, that focused on the mysticism in the lives and major works of Thoreau and Walt Whitman. Thoreau’s Quest includes additional material on Thoreau’s life and also interpretations from Walden.

You’ll find out how Thoreau’s principal work Walden was inspired by his spiritual revelations and struggles and what the deeper meanings are in key passages from his classic.

Paul Hourihan also delves into the subject of depression and the role it plays in the life of the spiritual seeker in light of Thoreau’s extended depression after publishing his masterpiece.

By understanding the wisdom and strengths as well as the faults and failings of this great man of letters, and seeker of truth, we can know ourselves better.