Midlife and the Great Unknown cover art

Midlife and the Great Unknown

Finding Courage and Clarity Through Poetry

 Preview

Get 30 days of Premium Plus free

£8.99/month after 30-day free trial. Cancel monthly.
Try for £0.00
More purchase options
Buy Now for £7.99

Buy Now for £7.99

About this listen

 "In the middle of the road of my life I awoke in a dark wood, where the true way was wholly lost."

When you find yourself suddenly without bearings, as Dante Alighieri voiced so well centuries ago, where will you look for guidance? Throughout the ages, teaches David Whyte, the language of poetry has held a special power to hazard ourselves boldly at the "fierce edges" of our lives.

On Midlife and the Great Unknown, you will engage with poetic imagination as it was meant to be experienced: as your companion and guide for the challenging terrain of midlife. Join this Yorkshire-born poet and bestselling author to explore:

  • "Radical simplification": an invitation to sit in silent reflection and observation
  • Using your poetic imagination to navigate life's cycles of loss and joy
  • Honoring who you are right now, including your skills and limitations, and more

    The language of poetry can "emancipate" you into the next phase of your existence, teaches David Whyte. It can help you break through obstacles and give you courage to take necessary risks. Drawing from the wisdom of fellow poets Rainer Maria Rilke, Emily Dickinson, and Seamus Heaney, Whyte invites you to boldly engage in a conversation with the second half of your life on Midlife and the Great Unknown.

    • ©2003 David Whyte (P)2008 Sounds True     Aging Parents Creativity Parenting & Families Personal Development Relationships Inspiring
    All stars
    Most relevant
    Wow. Now I get poetry. Deep nourishment. Thank you so much for writing this. Have started to read a few lines a day, as suggested.

    Wow.

    Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
    Life affirming book, bringing life's elements back into perspective. I would highly recommend this book to anyone, no matter what frontier you are at in your life.

    Wonderful

    Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
    love David's work yet this overlaps with much of his calm mind wild heart audiobook

    love it

    Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
    That moment when you find an author you resonate with is a moment when the sense of aloneness subsides and belonging is realised. A gift.

    Uncommon wisdom on every page.

    Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
    This was so provocative and insightful, I will listen to it again and again. Like a brilliant conversation with someone who loves you very much.

    Tender and full of truth

    Something went wrong. Please try again in a few minutes.
    See more reviews