The Dark Night of the Soul - by Gerald G May (Paperback)

About the Book

May argues that the dark "shadow" side of the true spiritual life has been trivialized and neglected to serious detriment; superficial and naively upbeat spirituality does not heal and enrich the soul. Only the honest, sometimes difficult, encounters with what Christian spirituality has described in helpful detail as "the dark night of the soul" can lead to true spiritual wholeness.

From the Back Cover

Now in paperback: a distinguished psychiatrist, spiritual counsellor and bestselling author shows how the dark sides of the spiritual life are a vital ingredient in deep, authentic, healthy spirituality.

Gerald G. May, MD, one of the great spiritual teachers and writers of our time, argues that the dark 'shadow' side of the true spiritual life has been trivialised and neglected to our serious detriment. Superficial and naively upbeat spirituality does not heal and enrich the soul. Nor does the other tendency to relegate deep spiritual growth to only mystics and saints. Only the honest, sometimes difficult encounters with what Christian spirituality has called and described in helpful detail as 'the dark night of the soul' can lead to true spiritual wholeness.

May emphasises that the dark night is not necessarily a time of suffering and near despair, but a time of deep transition, a search for new orientation when things are clouded and full of mystery. The dark gives depth, dimension and fullness to the spiritual life.

Review Quotes

"[An] excellent offering.... With its clear writing and strong psychological foundation, this is a relevant resouce for readers of all spiritual persuasions." - Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"A gifted and insightful writer, Gerald May's book uses the same title in an attempt to both clarify and amplify St. John of the Cross's original work, and to place it in a modern setting. May's book sets John in his historical context and opened me up to a vivid picture of a young man with a deep love for God and brilliant intellect." - Conversations Journal
"May's book uses the same title in an attempt to both clarify and amplify St. John of the Cross's original work, and to place it in a modern setting.... A vivid picture of a young man with a deep love for God and brilliant intellect." - Conversations Journal