A marvellously readable translation of the great Middle English classic of Christian mysticism. Now part of the beautifully designed Shambhala Pocket Library collection. This anonymous fourteenth-century text is the glory of English mysticism and one of the most practical and useful guides to finding union with God ever written. The Cloud of Unknowing consists of a series of letters written by a monk to his student or disciple, instructing him (or her) in the way of Divine union. Its theology is presented in a way that is remarkably easy to understand as well as practical, providing advice on prayer and contemplation that anyone can use. Carmen Butcher's translation boldly brings the text into language as appealing to modern ears as it was to its original readers more than five hundred years ago. This book is part of the Shambhala Pocket Library series. The Shambhala Pocket Library is a collection of short, portable teachings from notable figures across religious traditions and classic texts. The covers in this series are rendered by Colorado artist Robert Spellman. The books in this collection distill the wisdom and heart of the work Shambhala Publications has published over 50 years into a compact format that is collectible, reader-friendly, and applicable to everyday life.