Fragrant Palm Leaves

Fragrant Palm Leaves: Journals 1962-1966   

by Thich Nhat Hanh, translated by Mobi Warren

Riverhead Books, New York, 1998.  224 pp.

Thich Nhat Hanh is well-known and revered for his public work teaching mindfulness, peace, and compassion. This rich journal from the sixties is intriguing for its glimpse of the personal behind this work—the human playfulness and struggles along with scenarios of illumination and insight. 

Using vivid imagery, he eloquently describes illness, political and social events, friendships, and his growing belief and participation in engaged Buddhism, which emphasizes compassionate action and relationship coupled with meditation practice. Just one example involves a poignant episode during an extended teaching assignment in New York: he acknowledges the violent “storm” approaching Vietnam and writes that he hopes he will be home in time to face it with his friends. If you wish to witness pure Buddhism and pure love, you need look no further.      

-- reviewed by Dawn Kurzka

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