Open the Heart of Self-Discovery through the lives and profound works of Henry David Thoreau and Walt Whitman Henry David Thoreau and Walt Whitman were great American writers of the 19th century. But did you know that they were also mystics? “Mysticism in American Literature: Thoreau's Quest and Whitman's Self” focuses on the mysticism in the lives and major writings of Henry David Thoreau and Walt Whitman. It explains notable passages that have eluded many of us from Thoreau's classic,” Walden,” and Walt Whitman's ground-breaking poem, “Song of Myself” from his “Leaves of Grass.” This study shows how their significant works were inspired by their spiritual revelations and struggles. It discusses reasons for Thoreau's long depression after the publication of “Walden.” It also compares the very different approaches that each of these Transcendentalists took to reach their spiritual achievements. Only from a mystical interpretation of their lives and writings can we truly discover the deeper message these two literary mystics have to offer us. By sharing with these remarkable men of letters their wisdom and strengths as well as their faults, and failings, our own evolution advances. This book serves to open the heart of self-discovery for readers seeking their own enlightenment. As Dr. Chari states in the Foreword: “At a time like this, Dr. Hourihan performs a valuable service by his courageous reaffirmation of what is of permanent value in the lives and works of two of the most original minds in American literature.”
