Collects significant letters from the Trappist monk, civil rights activist, and writer, offering insight into his spirituality and his quest combine to Eastern philosophy with Western spirituality.

Includes index.

A life in letters: in his own words -- Becoming and being a monk: reflections on the monastic life -- Living the writer's life: from manuscript to publication -- Speaking the truth: writing to fellow writers -- Seeking God in the ordinariness of life: Merton's contemplative spirituality -- Reading the signs of the times: Merton's critique of culture -- Networking for peace: the struggle against war and other forms of violence and oppression -- Keeping faith in times of change: Merton's reflections on the Catholic Church -- Seeking unity beyond difference: engaging in interreligious dialogue.