Daniel Burke of the Religion News Service has recently written about a new biography by Mark Shaw out entitled Beneath the Mask of Holiness about Thomas Merton, the inspirational contemplative Trappist monk who has been influential to many contemplatives (Christian and beyond) after him. However, this book has brought with it much controversy since it deals with the romantic relationship between Merton and Margie Smith, a student-nurse at a nearby hospital in Louisville, KY. This biography treats this taboo love encounter and chronicles Merton's internal struggles of a life of self-discipline and celibacy with the romance and love he felt with Margie.
It should be an engaging read regardless of your acquaintance with Merton or interest in the religious life.
Read Burke's article at RNS.
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