The Cloud of Unknowing and Other Works (Penguin Classics)

Taking the warning at the beginning that it is not meant for those with a casual or shallow spirituality into account, this work is an immensely deep and timeless guide to any Christian seeking nearness to God. Even in instances where I might disagree with the author's theology on some point, The Cloud of Unknowing is thought provoking and inspiring. The other works placed with the Cloud help put it into context. It is important that anyone who wishes to follow the author's advise do so thoughtfully and carefully. Concepts such as the impossibility to truly KNOW God and the impossibility for the senses and the mind to come to Him, along with the necessity to rely to a certain extent on the heart and emotions can easily lead in non-Christian directions if the reader does not have a mature understanding of spiritual matters. No matter how strange his teaching may seem at times, the author was an absolutely orthodox Catholic. It is important to remember where the author is coming from in such lofty literature to keep things in context. That done, it is easy for me, an Evangelical Baptist, to say that this work is as applicable for me today as it was during the middle ages when it was written. I also want to say that I always try to buy Penguin editions of any classic work I may be looking for. Penguin combines annotated and informational style that lends context with affordability. As a student, I appreciate both.

I read this book over 35 years ago and after reading Richard Rolle's English writings, where it is referred to continually in the introduction, as 'by The Cloud Author', I knew I had to read it again. The 14th century mystics truly knew the Lord and deeply desired to encourage others to do the same. So with my love for mid-evil Christian literature, I decided to read The Cloud again. I was delighted to fine an older copy with the "classic" Penguin cover (I really dislike the format and style of their new covers). The copy I received was in great condition, even better than their "good" description. Hats off to Hawking Books. And hats off to The Cloud Author... treat yourself, and read this book.

I ordered this book as a suggested read. It is one of the books Marilyn Manson studied.I was very eager to get it but also hesitant as I am not as learned as he is. I do not believe in God or religion so wanted to see what it was about.It has a very long introductory which I tried to skip but did have to got back and read because I would have been lost if I hadn't.My second disappointment was the print in this particular issue is very teeny tiny! I had to use a ruler magnifier as well as my glasses to see it.The writings themselves: the first part is a background and explanation of the real text. These are writings that apparently Monks and people from the middle ages who wanted to become closer to God were studying. The second half are the actual prayers and meditations.I almost wish they had reversed the order of this book and let me read the prayers and meditations first. I hate having things explained to me before I read them because I like to make my own mind up and once you read interpretations one can't help but be influenced by that.The prayers and meditation guides are mostly the usual give up all vices and study the Word and meditate, instruction's you'd expect to be given to monks. In all fairness I have not finished this book and hope to come back and write another review.The book arrived quickly and in excellent condition, just jeers to the printing industry on how they are using uber small print now!

This book offers many ideas on leading the spiritual life

Are we and our institutions--individually and collectively--irredeemably mired in the flesh?"Not!", says the wisely anonymous author of Penguin Classics' "The Cloud of Unknowing and [Three] Other Works", all dealing with the flesh-to-Spirit path to spiritual perfection.The unknown author's recommendation that one pay particular attention to short words of one syllable (God, love, in, up, and so forth) is well taken, as is his insistence that one must read the entire text (to avoid misunderstandings) and indeed repeatedly re-read, in order to arrive at a proper understanding of all that the author would so dearly love to convey.I was greatly helped by including translator A. C. Spearing's Introduction in the cycle of readings.Your friend in Christ Jesus, John Douglas Adams.

Very interesting book. Given its age, it was much easier to read than I was expecting and provided insight into the more mystical and contemplative practice of prayer meditation.

This one I kept to read myself. My degree is in philosophy. This book not only presets "the Unknowing" but also touches on what others writers were doing at that time.I love it.Thank you.

From the 1100s and well translated works by the anonymous author, a spiritual director of souls. Quoted in the Office of Readings for those who know that official publication, if wondering as to orthodoxy.