St John of the Cross

The clearest exposition of the life and teachings of the diminutive Carmelite Friar whose influence has been so very profound. Men celebrated by later generations normally achieve fame through their contribution to a particular area of human endeavour. San Juan de la Cruz (1542-91) achieved greatness on two counts; in the realm of spirituality, as a mystic; in literature, as a poet. He stands at a high peak in the mystical tradition of the Christian west. The Mystical Doctor of The Roman Catholic Church, he is also regarded by many as one of the greatest lyrical poets that Spain has ever produced. To understand and explore his work, both sides of his achievement must be examined. In this book, Steven Payne shows how the roots of the Western mystical tradition go very deep and the discovery of Dionysius profoundly altered the direction of this tradition. Here is as clear an exposition as it is possible to find of the life and teachings of the diminutive Carmelite Friar whose influence has been so very profound. -- Publisher's summary