Momma And The Meaning Of Life
Bestselling author of THE GIFT OF THERAPY and STARING AT THE SUN, psychotherapist Irvin D. Yalom probes into the mysteries of the therapeutic encounter in this entertaining and thoughtful collection.
In six enthralling stories drawn from his own clinical experience, Irvin D. Yalom once again proves himself an intrepid explorer of the human psyche as he guides his patients – and himself – toward transformation. With eloquent detail and sharp-eyed observation Yalom introduces us to a memorable cast of characters. Drifting through his dreams and trampling through his thoughts are Paula, Yalom’s ‘courtesan of death’; Myrna, whose eavesdropping gives new meaning to patient confidentiality; Magnolia, into whose ample lap Yalom longs to pour his own sorrows, even as he strives to ease hers; and Momma – ill-tempered, overpowering, and suffocating her son with both love and disapproval.
A richly rewarding, almost illicit glimpse into the therapist’s heart and mind, MOMMA AND THE MEANING OF LIFE illuminates the unique potential of every human relationship.
In six enthralling stories drawn from his own clinical experience, Irvin D. Yalom once again proves himself an intrepid explorer of the human psyche as he guides his patients – and himself – toward transformation. With eloquent detail and sharp-eyed observation Yalom introduces us to a memorable cast of characters. Drifting through his dreams and trampling through his thoughts are Paula, Yalom’s ‘courtesan of death’; Myrna, whose eavesdropping gives new meaning to patient confidentiality; Magnolia, into whose ample lap Yalom longs to pour his own sorrows, even as he strives to ease hers; and Momma – ill-tempered, overpowering, and suffocating her son with both love and disapproval.
A richly rewarding, almost illicit glimpse into the therapist’s heart and mind, MOMMA AND THE MEANING OF LIFE illuminates the unique potential of every human relationship.
Newsletter Signup
By clicking ‘Sign Up,’ I acknowledge that I have read and agree to Hachette Book Group’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Use
Reviews
Irvin Yalom brings to these splendid tales of psychotherapy his rich experience as a therapist, his broad knowledge of philosophy and literature, and his profound humanity. He draws the reader into his stories with the same skill he uses to engage his patients in therapy
In every chapter, an epiphany, a tug at the heart or a gasp of realization. And 'The Hungarian Cat Curse' will be read aloud for decades, possibly forever. This isn't a book - it's a gift
A fascinating commentary on the bond between patient and therapist
This is a chance to get inside the mind of a brilliant therapist and witness the soul breaking through. Like the first light of dawn, MOMMA AND THE MEANING OF LIFE is warm, radiant and revealing
Yalom shows us what the meaning and practice of therapy mean to him ... and does it with enviable openness and style
Ironic and self-aware, Irvin Yalom gently leads us to the brink of death, to the edge of madness, and to the depths of despair. Dr. Yalom makes the same compassionate agreement with we, his readers, as he does with his patients: to reveal himself fully and honestly so that together we may confront the bleak existential realities and bring meaning and richness to our lives. I'm sure his Momma would have been proud
Six long psychotherapy narratives - four based on actual cases, two fictional - that comprise a worthy sequel to the author's bestselling LOVE'S EXECUTIONER. Yalom, author of many other books on psychotherapy, focuses here on how life can be enriched by emotionally integrating close encounters with loved ones' deaths and with one's own mortality. What particularly makes this book worth many times its price is a stunning piece entitled 'Seven Advanced Lessons in the Therapy of Grief'...
Yalom ... again displays the great narrative drive and wit evident in LOVE'S EXECUTIONER. At least as much as that book, MOMMA AND THE MEANING OF LIFE contains some truly profound observations on death, the sometimes desperate attempts to modify one's personality so as to live more fully, and other human struggles. These six engrossing narratives are very valuable gleanings from a master therapist's professional and personal experience.
Irvin Yalom indeed gives us a taste of the meaning of life in this wise and entertaining book
These spellbinding tales of pain and of healing transport us into the very cores of the therapeutic experience
Irvin Yalom continues to astonish us. Vitality, eloquence, wisdom, courage and the capacity to listen and learn mark this book indelibly