Open Secrets / Inward Prospects: Reflections on World and Soul

by Eva Brann

In her latest book, Eva Brann has collected observations and aphorisms written over more than thirty years. Open Secrets / Inward Prospects divides in a rough but ready way into two sorts: observations about our external world well known to all but not always openly told, and sightings of internal vistas and omens, wherein she looks at herself as a sample soul.

Often the aphorisms balance opposing thoughts, as if the writer were--simultaneously--on both ends of the seesaw.

In the preface Eva Brann describes her manner of composition: "I wrote these thoughts down on about two thousand sheets, two to three thoughts per paper, and I kept them in some used manila envelopes, the earliest of which bore a postmark of 1972."

Eva Brann is a member of the senior faculty at St. John's College in Annapolis, Maryland, where she has taught for over fifty years. She is a recipient of the National Humanities Medal. Her other books include The Logos of Heraclitus, Feeling Our Feelings, Homage to Americans, The Music of the Republic, Un-Willing, Then and Now, and Homeric Moments (all published by Paul Dry Books).

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1589880196
• ISBN13: 9781589880191
• Release Date: October 2004
• Publisher: Paul Dry Books
• Length: 378 Pages
• Weight: 2.16 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.3" x 4.8" x 7.4"

Customer Reviews

Let me count the ways

The light of the observations in this book shines clearly as the stars on a moonless night full of wonder. The little paragraphs are the twinkle in the joyful eye of a wise but not solumn friend. This book belongs on the hearth where there is good company. It should be in every suitcase for moments of "free" time. The reader will enjoy this book as he enjoys and savors a glass of wine. It belongs on the near-at-hand shelf of most reached for books.

Hors d'oeuvres of wisdom.

A book of remarkably witty, pithy, and insightful reflections on life, happiness, intimacy, and soul. Eva Brann's comments are unconventional and penetrating, and there are many great gems. She speaks with great wisdom and erudition. Many readers will find they are led to change the way they live and the way they deal with others. Most readers will find that the book will change the way they see themselves.