Month: May 2023

Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, also known as the ‘Queen of Expat Fiction,’ was one of the most underrated writers of the 20th century. She led a life that was both miraculous and inspiring, having won an Oscar, a Booker Prize, and a BAFTA award. Despite her numerous accolades, her story remains mostly unknown, and her works remain underappreciated. Born in Germany but raised in Britain, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala’s journey was nothing short of extraordinary. Her story teaches us about perseverance, dedication, and the importance of self-belief. Let’s dive into her life and learn about her impressive achievements.

Ruth Prawer Jhabvala was born on May 7, 1927, in Cologne, Germany, to a Jewish family. In 1939, her family fled Nazi Germany and immigrated to Britain. Ruth attended Queen Mary’s College in London and later earned a degree in English literature at Cambridge University. In 1951 Ruth got married and moved to India with her husband, Cyrus Jhabvala, who was a Parsi businessman. India became Ruth’s home for the next 24 years, and it was here that Ruth honed her writing skills and wrote numerous works that beautifully captured Indian society and culture.

Ruth’s writing style and her characters were unique and seemed to come to life on the pages. Her works have been translated into 15 languages, and it is said that her stories are some of the most accurate depictions of Indian life. Her early works, such as To Whom She Will and The Nature of Passion, explored themes of love and longing, while her later works, such as The Householder and Heat and Dust, dealt with the cultural clash between India and the West. Her works won over critics and readers alike.

Ruth’s literary achievements didn’t stop there. In 1975, she won the Booker Prize for her novel, Heat and Dust. In 1983, Ruth adapted E. M. Forster’s novel A Passage to India into a movie that won two Academy Awards and a Golden Globe Award. Ruth’s success as a screenwriter continued with movies like ‘Howards End’ and ‘Room with a View,’ which went on to become classics in their own right.

In 2002, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala received the Padma Bhushan Award, one of India’s highest civilian awards, for her contribution to literature. Her writing has inspired generations of writers and has had a profound impact on Indian literature. Even with all her success, Ruth reflects that she continued to write “untethered by praise or blame.”

In conclusion, Ruth Prawer Jhabvala’s story is one of resilience and perseverance. Her journey from Germany to India, her extensive work, her incredible awards, and her contributions to literature are nothing short of miraculous. Her works continue to inspire generations of writers to this day. Ruth’s story reminds us that we are capable of achieving our dreams if we work hard and believe in ourselves. Her words have and will continue to resonate with readers around the world. Let us take a moment to celebrate the legacy of Ruth Prawer Jhabvala, the ‘Queen of Expat Fiction’.

Self-improvement is a continuous process that requires dedication, patience, and inspiration. Often, people find inspiration from historical figures who achieved great feats and left a remarkable legacy in their respective fields. One such figure is John Dryden, an English poet, dramatist, and literary critic who lived from 1631 to 1700. Dryden was one of the most influential writers of his time and left a wide range of literary works that continue to inspire people to this day. This blog explores the life and works of John Dryden and how they can inspire self-improvement.

Early Life and Education

John Dryden was born in 1631 in Aldwincle, Northamptonshire, England. His father died when he was young, and he was brought up by his widowed mother and her sister. Dryden attended the prestigious Westminster School in London and then studied at Trinity College, Cambridge. He completed his degree in 1654 and moved to London to pursue a career in writing. Dryden’s early life shows us that it’s possible to rise above difficult circumstances and achieve success through hard work and dedication.

Literary Career

Dryden’s literary career spanned over three decades, and he wrote a wide range of works, including plays, poems, translations, and literary criticism. One of his first major works was the play “The Wild Gallant,” which was produced in 1663. He went on to write famous plays such as “All for Love” and “The Conquest of Granada.” Dryden also wrote poems such as “Annus Mirabilis” and “Absalom and Achitophel,” which were critical and commercial successes. Additionally, Dryden translated several works, including Virgil’s “Aeneid.” His literary career shows us that hard work, dedication, and a love for one’s craft can lead to greatness.

Literary Criticism

In addition to writing, Dryden was also a literary critic. He wrote several essays, including “Of Dramatic Poesy” and “An Essay on Satire,” which are still studied by scholars today. Dryden believed in the importance of following rules and conventions in writing and criticized writers who did not adhere to them. However, he also believed in the freedom of expression and the importance of innovation. Dryden’s literary criticism teaches us the importance of having a strong work ethic, following rules while also embracing innovation, and valuing constructive criticism.

Legacy

John Dryden’s legacy continues to inspire people today. His works are still read and studied in academic settings, and his influence can be seen in the works of other writers. Dryden was a literary giant in his time and left a lasting impact on the literary world. His legacy teaches us that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, we can leave a positive impact on the world and inspire future generations.

John Dryden’s life and works serve as an inspiration for self-improvement. His early life shows us that it’s possible to overcome difficult circumstances through hard work and dedication. His literary career teaches us that passion, dedication, and a love for one’s craft can lead to greatness. Dryden’s literary criticism teaches us the importance of following rules while embracing innovation and valuing constructive criticism. Finally, Dryden’s legacy teaches us that with hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence, we can leave a positive impact on the world and inspire future generations.

Poetry has been an art form that has been cherished since ancient times. From the earliest works of Homer’s epic poem, The Iliad, to William Shakespeare’s sonnets, poetry has always been a medium for people to express strong emotions, ideas, and experiences. And during the age of the Roman Republic, one poet who stood out was known as Gaius Valerius Catullus.

Catullus’ works may be over 2,000 years old, but his poems are still read and appreciated by many today. His poems range from love, friendship, jealousy, and other important themes that are still relevant to this day. In this blog post, we will explore the life, works, and impact of Catullus, and how his works can inspire you to unleash your inner poet.

Catullus was born in Verona, Italy in 84-54 BC, and his father was a wealthy man who helped fund his education in Rome. Most of Catullus’ works were influenced by the Greek literary tradition, but he had his own unique style that set him apart from other poets of his time. His poem, Carmina, which means ‘songs’, consists of 116 short poems that have been divided into three different genres: the personal, the lyric, and the epyllion.

The personal poems of Catullus are considered his most significant contributions to the field of poetry. These poems were about his own life experiences and his relationships with others. One of his most famous personal poems is “Catullus 85”, which is about his love for a woman named Lesbia. This poem is particularly interesting as it shows the dark side of love and how it can make someone go mad with jealousy and despair.

The lyric poems of Catullus are different from his personal poems, as they are about more universal themes such as nature, philosophy, and politics. One of his most famous lyric poems is “Catullus 64”, which is about the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. Some scholars even consider this poem to be his finest work due to its intricate structure and vivid imagery.

Lastly, the epyllion genre of Catullus’ works is about short narrative poems that often depict a mythological story. One of his most famous works in this genre is “Catullus 64”, which is about the love affair between Jason and Hypsipyle. This poem is particularly interesting as it shows his ability to mix humor, irony, and tragedy in a single poem.

Catullus’ works may be over 2,000 years old, but his poems still resonate with many people today. His unique style, difficult life experiences, and diverse range of works have inspired countless poets and writers throughout the centuries. So if you’re feeling stuck in your writing and want to unleash your inner poet, why not give Catullus a try? Read his poems, analyze his techniques, and see what you can learn from his works. Who knows, you might just discover a whole new side of yourself that you never knew existed. Happy writing!

Life can be a rollercoaster ride, full of ups and downs, twists, and turns. However, in the midst of all the chaos, there is always hope and strength that we can gather within ourselves to become better and face the challenges ahead. One of the great writers who have delved into this topic is Rita Mae Brown, an American writer who has made a name for herself through books that focus on growth and self-improvement. In this blog post, we will look at the life and works of Rita Mae Brown, how she inspires us to unleash our inner power, and how her words of wisdom can help us navigate the ups and downs of life.

Rita Mae Brown was born on November 28, 1944, in Hanover, Pennsylvania. She grew up in the South and went on to study English at the University of Florida. Brown is a prolific writer with over 50 published books, including novels, poetry, and non-fiction books. One of her most famous works is the novel titled “Rubyfruit Jungle,” which is considered a classic of lesbian literature. Through her books, she encourages introspective and self-improvement, and her works remain relevant in today’s society where people need to find inner strength to cope with life’s challenges.

In her book “Starting from Scratch: A Different Kind of Writers’ Manual,” Brown shares her personal experiences in the writing arena. She provides valuable insights about the writing process that can be applied to various areas of our lives. For example, she encourages writers to trust themselves and listen to their inner voices. Similarly, in life, it is important to trust yourself and follow your instincts, especially in times of uncertainty.

In “Animal Magnetism,” Rita Mae Brown uses her love for animals to convey important messages about life. For instance, she focuses on the importance of embracing the uniqueness of each individual and trying to understand those who are different from us. The book is a reminder that we can learn from animals and apply many of their character traits to our daily lives. For instance, we can learn from dogs that loyalty and devotion are valuable traits that we should cultivate in our relationships.

In her novel “Outfoxed,” Rita Mae Brown highlights the need to have an open mind in tackling different issues in life. The book is about foxhunting, and Brown uses it as a metaphor to explore complex social, economic, and political issues. Through the novel, she encourages readers to be critical thinkers, question the status quo, and be open to new ideas.

Another one of Rita Mae Brown’s inspiring works is “Six of One,” a novel about a group of women who support each other as they navigate through life’s challenges. The book emphasizes the importance of community and reminds us that we don’t have to face challenges alone. Brown uses her characters to demonstrate how a strong support system can help us harness our inner power and surmount obstacles.

Rita Mae Brown’s works are a treasure trove of invaluable insights that can help us unleash our inner power and overcome life’s hurdles. Through her books, she encourages us to trust ourselves, listen to our inner voice, embrace our uniqueness, cultivate valuable traits like loyalty and devotion, question the status quo, be open to new ideas, and find our support system. We can draw inspiration from Brown’s books and apply her teachings to various aspects of our lives. In a world that can be chaotic and overwhelming, Rita Mae Brown’s works provide a much-needed counterbalance, urging us to take a step back and reflect on our lives, find our inner strength, and embrace the journey ahead.

When you think of the classic novelist Jane Austen, you might imagine charming characters, romantic intrigue, and the societal norms of 19th-century England. While all those elements are indeed present in her writing, Austen’s literature holds surprising depths of wisdom that even modern readers can appreciate. Through her keen observations of human behavior and her sharp wit, Jane Austen actually offers some valuable lessons in self-help and personal growth. So whether you’re a lifelong Austen fan or just curious about her work, here are a few insights to discover in her timeless books.

Know Your Worth: One of the most important themes in Austen’s novels is the idea of self-respect, particularly for women. In her time, societal expectations often placed women in a subservient role, but Austen’s heroines refuse to be defined by others’ opinions or limitations. From Elizabeth Bennet in “Pride and Prejudice” to Emma Woodhouse in “Emma,” these women know what they’re worth and won’t settle for anything less. For modern readers, this can be a powerful reminder to value ourselves and recognize our own strengths and boundaries.

Choose Kindness: Austen’s stories often feature sharp-tongued characters who use wit and sarcasm to cut down others. However, her heroines model a different approach: they are able to speak their minds without resorting to cruelty or insults. Whether it’s Anne Elliot gently defending herself against her insensitive family in “Persuasion” or Fanny Price standing up for herself with quiet dignity in “Mansfield Park,” Austen’s characters demonstrate the power of kindness and respect in communication.

Embrace Change: Many of Austen’s protagonists must navigate significant changes in their lives, from financial hardship to the loss of a beloved family member. While these events can be painful and difficult, Austen suggests that they can also be opportunities for growth and self-discovery. By facing challenges with resilience and optimism, her heroines show that change can eventually bring rewards and new possibilities.

Seek Equality: Another recurring theme in Austen’s work is the idea of fairness and equality, particularly regarding gender and class. Whether it’s Emma realizing the flaws in her assumptions about the lower classes in “Emma” or Catherine Morland rejecting the shallow expectations of high society in “Northanger Abbey,” her characters challenge the status quo and advocate for justice. In our own lives, this can inspire us to examine our own biases and strive for greater balance and inclusivity.

Believe in Love: Of course, Austen is famous for her romantic plots, and her novels offer no shortage of swoon-worthy heroes and heroines. Yet, beyond the love stories, Austen’s writing celebrates the power of human connection and the comfort of supportive relationships. Whether it’s the bond between sisters in “Sense and Sensibility” or the friendship between Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in “Pride and Prejudice,” her characters remind us of the value of love in all its forms.

Jane Austen’s novels may have been written centuries ago, but their themes and insights remain just as relevant today. From knowing our worth to seeking equality to embracing change, her characters offer a wealth of wisdom and inspiration for self-help and personal growth. So, the next time you pick up “Emma” or “Persuasion,” consider the lessons you can learn from these timeless stories.

I. Introduction

Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert, was an influential spiritual teacher, psychologist, and author, best known for his groundbreaking book “Be Here Now.” This article delves into the life and teachings of Ram Dass, explores the philosophy behind “Be Here Now,” and examines the lasting impact of his work on Western spirituality.

II. Early Life of Ram Dass

Born in 1931 in Boston, Massachusetts, Richard Alpert grew up in a middle-class Jewish family. He attended Tufts University and then went on to earn a Ph.D. in psychology from Stanford University. As a young academic, he secured a teaching position at Harvard University, where he would eventually collaborate with Timothy Leary in controversial psychedelic research using LSD.

III. Meeting Maharaji (Neem Karoli Baba)

In 1967, Alpert traveled to India in search of spiritual guidance. There, he met the Indian guru Neem Karoli Baba, also known as Maharaji. Under Maharaji’s tutelage, Alpert’s perspective on life and spirituality transformed, and he returned to the United States a changed man, taking the name Ram Dass, which means “servant of God.”

IV. Writing “Be Here Now”

Inspired by his experiences with Maharaji, Ram Dass wrote “Be Here Now,” which was published in 1971. The book became an instant classic and played a significant role in popularizing Eastern spirituality and philosophies in the West. “Be Here Now” has sold millions of copies and continues to inspire spiritual seekers today.

V. The Philosophy of “Be Here Now”

At the core of “Be Here Now” is the idea that true happiness and fulfillment can only be found by living fully in the present moment. Ram Dass encourages readers to let go of their attachment to the past and future and to cultivate a deep sense of awareness and mindfulness in their daily lives.

VI. Key Concepts

• A. Living in the Present Moment

Ram Dass emphasizes the importance of living in the “here and now.” He believes that by focusing on the present moment, we can access a state of inner peace, which in turn allows us to experience true happiness and fulfillment.

• B. The Illusion of Ego

“Be Here Now” teaches that the ego is an illusion, a construct of the mind that separates us from our true selves and the interconnectedness of all things. By recognizing this illusion, we can begin to dissolve the ego and experience the underlying unity of existence.

• C. Unconditional Love

One of the most powerful teachings in “Be Here Now” is the concept of unconditional love. Ram Dass encourages us to cultivate this type of love for ourselves, others, and all beings, recognizing that we are all interconnected and part of the same divine consciousness.

• D. Spiritual Practices

“Be Here Now” offers various spiritual practices, such as meditation, yoga, and mantra repetition, to help readers cultivate mindfulness and live in the present moment. These practices serve as tools to deepen one’s spiritual journey and foster a greater sense of connection with the self and the universe.

VII. Impact on Western Spirituality

The publication of “Be Here Now” marked a turning point in Western spirituality, introducing millions of people to Eastern philosophies and practices. Ram Dass’s teachings inspired a generation of spiritual seekers, paving the way for the widespread adoption of meditation, yoga, and other Eastern practices in the West.

VIII. Ram Dass’s Later Years

In the years following the publication of “Be Here Now,” Ram Dass continued to write, teach, and travel, sharing his wisdom and experiences with audiences around the world. In 1997, he suffered a stroke that left him with limited mobility and speech, but he remained dedicated to his spiritual path and continued to inspire others through his teachings.

IX. Ram Dass’s Legacy

Ram Dass passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and guide countless spiritual seekers. His teachings, especially those found in “Be Here Now,” have had a profound and lasting impact on Western spirituality, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation of Eastern philosophies and practices.

X. Conclusion

Ram Dass’s “Be Here Now” remains a cornerstone of Western spirituality and a guide for those on the path of self-discovery. His teachings on living in the present moment, dissolving the ego, and cultivating unconditional love continue to inspire countless individuals to explore their inner selves and embrace the interconnectedness of all beings.

XI. Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the main message of “Be Here Now”?

The main message of “Be Here Now” is the importance of living fully in the present moment and cultivating mindfulness and awareness in our daily lives.

2. Who was Ram Dass before he became a spiritual teacher?

Before becoming a spiritual teacher, Ram Dass, born Richard Alpert, was a psychologist and a professor at Harvard University, where he collaborated with Timothy Leary on psychedelic research using LSD.

3. How did Ram Dass meet his guru, Maharaji?

Ram Dass met his guru, Neem Karoli Baba (Maharaji), during a trip to India in 1967, seeking spiritual guidance after his experiences with psychedelic substances.

4. What spiritual practices does Ram Dass recommend in “Be Here Now”?

In “Be Here Now,” Ram Dass recommends various spiritual practices, such as meditation, yoga, and mantra repetition, to help cultivate mindfulness and live in the present moment.

5. How has “Be Here Now” influenced Western spirituality?

“Be Here Now” has played a significant role in popularizing Eastern spirituality and philosophies in the West, inspiring a generation of spiritual seekers and contributing to the widespread adoption of meditation, yoga, and other Eastern practices.