The Art of Solitude

By: Stephen Batchelor

Narrated by: Stephen Batchelor

When world renowned Buddhist writer Stephen Batchelor turned 60, he took a sabbatical from his teaching and turned his attention to solitude, a practice integral to the meditative traditions he has long studied and taught. He aimed to venture more deeply into solitude, discovering its full extent and depth.

This beautiful literary collage documents his multifaceted explorations. Spending time in remote places, appreciating and making art, practicing meditation and participating in retreats, drinking peyote and ayahuasca, and training himself to keep an open, questioning mind have all contributed to Batchelor's ability to be simultaneously alone and at ease. Mixed in with his personal narrative are inspiring stories from solitude's devoted practitioners, from the Buddha to Montaigne, and from Vermeer to Agnes Martin.

In a hyperconnected world that is at the same time plagued by social isolation, this book shows how to enjoy the inescapable solitude that is at the heart of human life.

©2020 Stephen Batchelor (P)2020 Yale Press Audio

Art of Solitude

A good listen with a lot of diverse points of view on the subject of solitude.

thoughtful and enlightening

The introduction made this book sound like a random pastiche, but in fact it is the deft idiosyncratic yet relatable —almost playful—exploration of solitude and its many forms and practitioners Read calmly and clearly by the author.

I enjoyed this book.

Different from Stephen's prior books. I enjoyed it very much. I enjoy Stephen's point of view, and absolutely share the interest in solitude.

Enjoyed listening to this book

Nothing I dislike. I’m usually not a book-person, however this book was a joy to listen to. Highly recommend it!

Enjoyed it totally

All I can say is that SB has a special way to present complex concepts with ease and grace. Worth listening to several times.