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Title: A meditation and affirmation
Review: Mark Salzman's novel is short and sweet, full of brief, beautiful metaphors - a vivid depiction of the contemplative life, and a look at the human doubt that inevitably accompanies the vocation.In this story, a contemplative nun, Sister John, is diagnosed with epilepsy, which leads her into uncertainty about her own spirituality.As with Alan Lightman's "Einstein's Dreams", each chapter is its own meditation, with a basis in the observation of nature -- the struggle against pride and doubt, the struggle towards purpose and enlightenment.The setting may seem esoteric, but Salzman's attention to detail and depth of character bring it to life, and make the reader one with Sister John's struggles. Ultimately, we all share those struggles, feel that doubt, and question our purposes.
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