What the Lotus Said: A Journey to Tibet and Back

by Eric Swanson

Book Overview

Yes, it's about Tibet, but not the mystical wonderland of Western imagination. There is magic, to be sure -- saints who pass invisibly among prison guards, ceremonies that stop torrential rain, and a ferocious landscape that inspires uneasy reverence. But the country described in these pages is incontestably real, harsh, and shocking. "What the Lotus Said is the story of Eric Swanson's journey through East Tibet in the company of a Tibetan lama and...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0312266936
• ISBN13: 9780312266936
• Release Date: April 2002
• Publisher: St. Martin's Press
• Length: 190 Pages
• Weight: 1.05 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 5.8" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

What the lotus didn't say

This book is one of the better written of the stream of books that are now arriving from Americans visiting Tibet. The book flows on giving a realistic view of what life in China and Tibet is currently like and presents some beginning concepts of Buddhism to the uninitiated. Swanson is a wordsmith and the book carries greater depth than some of the others. We all carry who we are into our adventures and writing and Eric does this. Unfortunately he is a product of his NYC urban culture which prevents him and us from fully appreciating his adventure. This adds adds a touch of NY cynicism and self-indulgence. Atleast he put out the effort to learn some Chinese which is more than most Americans would do. It apppears that he is studying Buddhism for a good death rather than becoming enlightened. I would say that this book is a worthwhile read, but don't expect to have high realizations; this spiritual adventurer has a ways to go. Once again I am reminded of how soft we Americans have become as a culture. Our pioneering ancesters are long forgotten as well as our understanding that hardship isn't all bad. I wish there was more heart in this book, but then I wish there was more heart in most Americans for if one understands what the lotus really said one would be enlightened.

A short but extremely vivid glimpse of Tibet

Imagine going to a formal dinner in suit and tie, but not having had a shower or bath in weeks beforehand! Eric Swanson's humorous, poignant view of Tibet is rife with memorable visions. At times I burst out laughing and read passages to my companions on the bus. But the book is more than just a travelogue throught the dirt and grime of Tibetan poverty. It is about spiritual thirst and quest. Though this book is not as long or didactic as others ("3 Years in Tibet" or Alexandra David-Neels' works), I found it superb and will keep it and read it again. I didn't think that Eric was on an ego-trip!!! Jeez! Some reviewers are so strange! The ending was very touching, I thought. I especially liked the story of the envelope containing the strands of hair from past beings, including Eric's own head... the whisker of a dead cat... That kind of stuff always makes the old tears flow, which is good. So enjoy this sparkling little gem of a book! And enjoy your Western shower and deodorant!

I couldn't put this book down

Although I'm not an expert on Buddhism, I got a real spiritual lift from this book. The author explores Buddhist legend and thinking in a truthful, modern, loving voice. Anyone who is interested in Tibet, Buddhism, or adventure will enjoy "What the Lotus Said." Swanson proves that it is possible to journey to the center of self awareness without denying Western background and values. Unlike many other books I have read on these subjects, Swanson brings humor, foible, and reality into the realm of the mystical. I only wish there had been more of it.

The Self as a "Stream of Being"

I have always had a interest in Buddhism and was immediately attracted to this book when I heard about it. I was familiar with Eric's writing before having read and truly enjoyed his first book, THE BOY IN THE LAKE. This story is an inspirational, and fascinating account of the journey of Eric Swanson through Eastern Tibet with a Tibetan Lama and several other American followers. The trip was basically made for humanitarian reasons, to bring medical aid, and other supplies to schools and other groups in need in Tibet. If you have ever had any interest in Buddhism or just dreamed of what it would be like to travel to Tibet, this book is magical, very informative, and an easy read. I read it in one evening. It's much more than a travel log, and written with the general reader in mind. Any age group would benefit and enjoy this book. The hardships and disenchantment that Eric and the others experienced on this journey seemed overwhelming at times. Traveling from a country that has so much, to a country with so little, makes you appreciate what you do have so much more. Eric even begins to ask himself " Why am I a Buddhist"? There is much questioning at times on his part, but very positive results do occur for him in "Seeing the Light". We learn that Tibetan masters often refer to the individual self as a "Stream of Being", meaning that an enormous variety of conditions contribute to our life each and every moment we exist. How true! I think this sums up the true meaning of life itself. A very thought provoking, intelligent, and interesting book. I certainly learned a great deal from Eric's reliving his spiritual journey for us. It was easy to visualize, interpret, and compare his feelings with my own beliefs. The author has succeeded in accomplishing what he set out to do by entertaining & teaching us a little bit about Eastern Tibet and Buddhism. The search for Spiritual solace can be complicated, and a long process, but certainly worth the effort. Highly Recommended!Joe Hanssen

The Reality of the Spiritual Quest

I had the great pleasure of both meeting and dining with Eric Swanson, for the very first time, yesterday, Easter 2002. He is one of the most pleasant and personable dinner companions that anyone could ever wish for. Somewhere during our conversation he mentioned that he had written this book, and then produced a copy for me as a gift. As the evening progressed I found myself wishing that I could spend many more hours in his charming company. I began reading "What the Lotus Said" as soon as I returned home to prolong the contact. Eric in his conversational tone immediately takes you from your own reality and whisks you into his own spiritual quest without once losing his firm grip upon your hand and heart and mind. You never flounder as you accompany him through this wild adventure of discovery and awareness described with such clarity that it rivals any "reality show" I've ever seen, and he does so with both feet firmly on the ground. Nor is there ever the slightest hint of being "talked down to" which unfortunately is all too common in this genre. Eric Swanson's mingling of mindfulness and wit truly make him a Buddhist master and this book is a thumping good read!He has impeccable table manners as well!