Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown: A Mountain Journal : Book Review

"Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown" by Alan W. Watts is a truly enlightening read that delves into spirituality, philosophy, and the nature of existence. Through a collection of essays, lectures, and conversations, Watts challenges our conventional ways of thinking and invites us to question our beliefs and assumptions.

Throughout the book, Watts skillfully blends Eastern and Western philosophies, drawing upon his vast knowledge of Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and mystical traditions. With his profound wisdom and eloquence, he explores the nature of reality, the self, and the interconnectedness of all things.

One of the key themes in "Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown" is the concept of "play." Watts emphasizes the importance of approaching life with spontaneity and joy rather than seriousness and rigidity. He encourages us to let go of attachments and embrace the impermanence of existence, so that we can fully engage with the present moment.

The book also delves into the nature of consciousness and the interconnectedness of all beings. Watts discusses the illusion of the separate self and urges us to recognize our inherent connection to the world around us. He highlights the profound interconnectedness between humans, animals, plants, and the environment, emphasizing our shared existence.

Watts' poetic and insightful writing style makes "Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown" an engaging and thought-provoking read. Whether you are well-versed in philosophy or simply curious about the mysteries of life, this book will inspire you to contemplate deeper aspects of existence.

What are readers saying?

Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown by Alan W. Watts has garnered a range of opinions from readers. While some laud the book for its profound ideas and insightful writing style, others find it to be excessively abstract and challenging to follow.

Many readers appreciate the depth of Alan W. Watts' philosophical concepts and his ability to expand their perspectives. They find his writing intellectually stimulating and admire the way he questions established thinking. Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown is described by some as a book that fosters self-reflection and delves into the nature of reality. Readers are impressed by Watts' adept blending of Eastern and Western philosophies, resulting in an engaging and thought-provoking read.

However, there are those who find the book perplexing and lacking coherence. They feel that Watts' writing style can be excessively abstract and hard to decipher. Some reviewers mention struggling to follow the book's train of thought and structure. They suggest that Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown may be better suited for readers already familiar with Alan W. Watts' work or those with a background in philosophy.

Furthermore, a few readers note that the book can be somewhat repetitive. They mention encountering similar ideas or concepts throughout the chapters, which diminishes their overall reading experience. However, others argue that this repetition reinforces the key messages, aiding readers in fully grasping and internalizing the teachings.

Ultimately, Cloud-hidden, Whereabouts Unknown elicits polarizing opinions from readers. It garners high praise from those seeking thought-provoking and intellectually challenging content. Nonetheless, some readers find it difficult to navigate and lacking coherence. If you enjoy exploring abstract concepts and are open to delving into deep philosophical discussions, this book may be a valuable read.

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