My Guru and His Disciple - Christopher Isherwood - SIGNED 1st U.K. Edition

Description: "My Guru and His Disciple" by Christopher Isherwood - SIGNED First U.K. Edition. Published by Eyre Methuen Ltd. in London in 1980. 338 pages. Very Good Condition, almost Like New, almost certainly Unread. Signed by the author, Christopher Isherwood, on the title page. See photos. "My Guru and His Disciple" is a memoir by Christopher Isherwood, first published in 1980. The book offers a deeply personal account of Isherwood's spiritual journey under the guidance of his guru, Swami Prabhavananda, a Hindu monk of the Ramakrishna Order. The work serves as both a spiritual autobiography and a tribute to the profound influence Prabhavananda had on Isherwood's life. Isherwood, an English-American novelist known for works like "A Single Man" and "Goodbye to Berlin," embarked on a spiritual quest after moving to the United States in the late 1930s. His encounter with Swami Prabhavananda marked a turning point in his life, leading him to explore the teachings of Vedanta, a spiritual philosophy rooted in the Vedas, the ancient scriptures of India. The memoir is structured around Isherwood's reflections on his relationship with his guru over several decades, beginning in the 1940s. It chronicles his initial skepticism, gradual acceptance, and eventual deep commitment to the teachings of Vedanta. The narrative is not linear but rather a series of recollections and meditations, interwoven with excerpts from Isherwood's diaries and letters. Isherwood first meets Swami Prabhavananda in 1939 through his friend, the poet and mystic Aldous Huxley. Initially, Isherwood is both intrigued and apprehensive. He approaches the teachings of Vedanta with the intellectual curiosity of a writer but is also wary of fully committing to a spiritual path. The early chapters of the book detail this internal conflict and his gradual realization that Prabhavananda possesses a deep wisdom and serenity that Isherwood finds increasingly compelling. As Isherwood becomes more involved in the Vedanta Society of Southern California, he begins to study the Bhagavad Gita and other sacred texts under Prabhavananda's guidance. The memoir describes his struggles with the discipline required for spiritual practice, including meditation and self-restraint. Isherwood candidly discusses his doubts, fears, and occasional lapses, making the memoir not just a story of spiritual progress but also one of personal struggle and growth. The core of the memoir is Isherwood's relationship with Prabhavananda. He portrays the swami as a gentle but firm guide, whose teachings go beyond mere words to embody a way of life. Isherwood recounts their conversations, the swami's insights, and the deep, often silent understanding that developed between them. The memoir reveals how Prabhavananda's presence gradually transforms Isherwood, helping him to reconcile his spiritual aspirations with his identity as a writer and a gay man in mid-20th century America. The later chapters of the book deal with Prabhavananda's declining health and eventual death in 1976. Isherwood reflects on the loss of his guru, grappling with feelings of grief and the challenge of continuing his spiritual practice without Prabhavananda's physical presence. Despite this loss, Isherwood finds that the swami's teachings and the relationship they shared continue to influence his life and work. The memoir concludes with a meditation on the nature of discipleship and the enduring bond between teacher and student. "My Guru and His Disciple" explores themes of faith, identity, and the complexities of the guru-disciple relationship. Isherwood's writing is marked by its honesty and humility, as he admits his own shortcomings and the difficulty of fully embracing a spiritual path. The book is also a reflection on the intersection of Eastern and Western thought, as Isherwood, a Western intellectual, seeks to integrate the ancient teachings of Vedanta into his modern life. The memoir is significant not only as a spiritual autobiography but also as a literary work that offers insight into Isherwood's personal life, his struggles with sexuality and faith, and his profound connection with a teacher who shaped his worldview. "My Guru and His Disciple" stands as a testament to the transformative power of spiritual guidance and the enduring impact of a true guru on a disciple's life. ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Christopher Isherwood: A Literary IconChristopher Isherwood (1904-1986) was a prominent English novelist, playwright, and diarist, best known for his semi-autobiographical works that explored themes of sexuality, identity, and spirituality. Born in High Wycombe, England, Isherwood's life was marked by a restless spirit and a search for meaning.Isherwood's early years were characterized by a fascination with the arts and a growing awareness of his own homosexuality. After attending Cambridge University, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery, traveling to Berlin in the early 1930s. His experiences in the city during the rise of Nazism provided the backdrop for some of his most famous works.Isherwood's literary output is notable for its candid exploration of taboo subjects, particularly homosexuality and the complexities of human relationships. His most acclaimed novel, Goodbye to Berlin, was adapted into the musical Cabaret. Other significant works include Mr. Norris Changes Trains, A Berlin Diary, and Lions and Shadows.In the 1930s, Isherwood met Swami Prabhavananda, a Hindu monk of the Ramakrishna Order. Under the Swami's guidance, Isherwood became deeply interested in Vedanta, a Hindu philosophy that emphasizes the unity of all existence. This spiritual journey significantly influenced his later writings and provided a sense of purpose and meaning in his life.Isherwood spent much of his later years living in California, where he became a prominent figure in the bohemian literary scene. He continued to write and publish throughout his life, leaving behind a rich legacy of works that continue to resonate with readers today.Key contributions of Christopher Isherwood:Pioneering exploration of sexuality: Isherwood's works challenged societal norms and paved the way for greater acceptance of LGBTQ+ individuals.Memorable characters: His characters, often based on real-life figures, are known for their complexity and depth.Insightful observations: Isherwood's writing offers keen observations of human nature and the complexities of modern life.Spiritual exploration: His exploration of Vedanta and other spiritual traditions adds a unique dimension to his work.Isherwood's legacy as a writer and thinker continues to inspire and challenge readers, making him a timeless figure in the literary world.

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End Time: 2024-09-25T03:03:00.000Z

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