Herein is a large collection of letters spanning most of Merton's time at Gethsemani. Letters between Fox and Merton concern Merton's vocation to the monastery, his constant desires for greater solitude, thoughts about leaving Gethsemani and joining the
Dom James Fox came to Gethsemani in 1927. He was serving as guestmaster when Merton's younger brother, John Paul, visited the monastery, and Fox made arrangements for John Paul's baptism. In 1948, Fox was elected abbot after the death of Dom Frederic Du
| Series# | Date | From/To | First Lines | Pub ✓ | Notes |
| | y/m/d | Merton | | Scan ✉ | |
Series 7 #1.
«All Series« |
1948/12/08 |
HLS from Merton |
Maybe, by the grace of God, I have made a good retreat. I'm not sure, because right now I am |
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disgusted by too much organ-playing and fanfare at Mass (Feast of the Immaculate Conception) / realizing that the way to sanctity for Merton is following Trappist Rule / Merton frustrated in not "amount[ing] to anything" - knows that he should not be concerned with this - God allows him publicity as a test to his virtue
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #2.
«All Series« |
1949/09/10 |
TALS from Merton |
Hoping this will not be too late to catch you at Citeaux I am enclosing some notes which I wrote out |
✓ |
plan for theological seminary at Gethsemani that would be the "West Point or Annapolis for Cistercians" - study of Cistercian Fathers and mystical theology / should have separate seminary building away from noise of tractors and organs / idea of a chapel in the woods or grange with Merton as "master of the grange" - solitude
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #3.
«All Series« |
1950/06/no? |
HLS from Merton |
Things are pretty dark. I feel as if I had a hole burnt out of my heart. My soul is empty - or |
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[June 1950 Day of Recollection] "less troubled when Jesus gives me solitude and silence" / "the Liturgy fills me with trouble and fear"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #4.
«All Series« |
1950/11/no? (#01) |
HALS from Merton |
At present they are just giving me medicine to prepare me for the operation which will probably be |
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[possible date from journals November 3-6, 1950] nose operation [for deviated septum] and recovery period / protocol with hospital stays [notes on front and back of the letter - by Fox?]
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #5.
«All Series« |
1950/11/no? (#02) |
TLS from Merton |
Concerning the HOSPITAL SITUATION….. Here are the suggestions you asked for. It seems to me that |
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rules for monks at hospital - obedience Usages of the Rule when away, provide name of doctor, speaking only "when charity requires", obey hospital authorities, don't wander around hospital too much nor leave hospital campus, no outside visitors except close relatives, don't sing high masses - use of a radio?
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #6.
«All Series« |
1951/08/05 |
TLS from Merton |
It has been a beautiful quiet day of Recollection. Fr Paul Philippe gave a nice talk on Our Lady in |
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does not want to speak about himself to anyone any more, including himself / desire for solitude
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #7.
«All Series« |
1951/09/no? |
TL from Merton |
I have got to make sure that I get in enough time on study necessary for our work esp. as Master of |
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balancing time as Master of Students / "Came back from Louisville Wed hating the world more than ever. Came back from the woods Fri loving solitude more than ever."
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #8.
«All Series« |
1951/no/no |
TLS from Merton |
May I be permitted a few suggestions concerning our chant program? Prof. Lefevre was all wet on |
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forcing love of Gregorian Chant through too much rehearsal is counterproductive / proposes cutting down to two practices a week
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #9.
«All Series« |
1952/06/no |
HLS from Merton |
Since the unusual activity and work I have got involved in since the visitation (during the |
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overworked and no time for silence and reflection - needs more time for study to prepare others for ordination / sending Fox quotations from a Cistercian Father on silence
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #10.
«All Series« |
1952/08/13 |
HLS from Merton |
First of all I was absent from Vespers today because I got caught in a thunderstorm and stayed out |
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must turn more towards a life of solitude - "pioneer of solitude and silence in our Order" / asking not to "let me saddle myself with any more jobs"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #11.
«All Series« |
1952/09/27 |
TLS from Merton |
It is getting near the deadline for writing to you. I hope I can still give you something to glance |
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no response from Abbot General and one censor refusing Nihil Obstat on Sign of Jonas / realizes that he is trying to impose his idea of "Cistercian" on everyone else / "dubious 'career' as a writer" / dentistry at the monastery / Vincent de Paul Society blaring Fulton Sheen over a loud speaker disturbing monks' refectory
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #12.
«All Series« |
1952/10/08 |
TL[c] from Merton |
PRIVATE VOW - In honor of the simplicity of humility of the Most Blessed Virgin Mary Mother of God, |
✓ |
Private Vow "that as long as I live I will never accept any election to the office of Abbot or Titular Prior either in this monastery or in any other monastery of the Cistercian Order"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #13.
«All Series« |
1952/11/05 |
TLS from Merton |
Since I did not write you a note on the monthly day of recollection--it just wouldn't have been fair |
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last October the worse month in 11 years at Gethsemani - "what hell must be like" / likes activity and likes people but that conflicts with needs for an interior life / trying to pray amidst constant "noise and machine racket"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #14.
«All Series« |
1952/12/26? |
TL from Merton |
SPIRITUAL INVENTORY This document will accompany our regular material inventory. The latter will |
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interior absence of good / need for solitude - time in the woods Fox granted is a help / wrote to Carthusians in September - retreat denied by Fox / a list of wrong motives (6) and right motives (3) for staying at Gethsemani - thinks he should stay at Gethsemani but only if allowed to become a Cistercian hermit
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #15.
«All Series« |
1952/no/no |
TALS from Merton |
Notes at end of retreat, 1952. In silenti et quiescenti et meditanti anima |
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desire for solitude / defense against a tendency to activity
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #16.
«All Series« |
1953/01/20 |
HLS from Merton |
I thought we ought to have a name for the new "refuge" and I chose the name St. Anne's, if |
✓ |
at St. Anne's [woodshed dedicated to St. Anne that Merton got permission to use as a kind of part time hermitage] Merton feels he's "arrived" in his God-given convictions for the first time in his life / the Benedictine values discovered at St. Anne's
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #17.
«All Series« |
1953/01/no |
HLS from Merton |
It seems that 1953 is going to be a pretty busy year for the Master of Students. Started out by |
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balance between being generous with time, coming to prayers on time, and solitude
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #18.
«All Series« |
1953/02/15 |
TLS from Merton |
This is a mardigras pre+Lent official manifestation of conscience, plus resolutions. I start up the |
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St. Anne's - solitude and clarity it affords - "this is IT" / "square peg in a round hole" in community life and has always had to "pretend" that "prayer, contemplation, activity" were not in conflict - they are not in conflict at St. Anne's
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #19.
«All Series« |
1953/03/08 |
TLS from Merton |
Since the beginning of Lent the pressure has been turned on again. Since I don't think there was |
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many duties make it difficult to make time to go to St. Anne's / other monks make him feel bad for going or pressure him to join in common labors / desire to give himself more completely to solitude
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #20.
«All Series« |
1953/03/11 |
TLS from Merton |
The other day I received a rather unpleasant note from Bro. Clement and wrote him an equally |
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nasty letters exchanged between Merton and Br. Clement - neither was "any value for God" - what he and Clement really want is actually the same thing - both want novices to work more on the farm - certain scholastics shouldn't be excepted and certain jobs should be cancelled when farm labor is needed
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #21.
«All Series« |
1953/04/12 |
TLS from Merton |
The other day I saw that Jesus was much more anxious for me to become a saint than I am myself. I |
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"stop making my spiritual life point towards some kind of experience" - trying to much "to 'experience' his presence rather than to love Him" / possibility of sending his books to the Holy See to look for errors to be "cleaned out" / the clarity associated with the silence of St. Anne's
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #22.
«All Series« |
1953/06/11? (#01) |
TL from Merton |
You remember I spoke to you asking that on feast days there should be no machines in the bottoms |
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noisy crew with tractors in the bottoms near St. Anne's - agreement w/ Fox that it would not occur on Feasts - disrupting silence / some in community "like noise and machines" better than silence and prayer / Fox shouldn't compel Merton to stay in this environment - "Why not… give the green light on that transitus?"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #23.
«All Series« |
1953/08/09 |
HLS from Merton |
Today has been for me one of the best Days of Recollection for a long time -- perhaps because I have |
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Merton's bitterness is useless / "ordinary crosses" don't bother him, it is the "apparent frustration of all my ideals"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #24.
«All Series« |
1953/08/31 |
TLS from Merton |
I am writing this out at St Ann's. What I want to say is mea culpa. I have spent the whole summer |
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avoided St. Anne's all summer and now regrets the time lost / mentions how great returning to the silence is for his prayer life
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #25.
«All Series« |
1953/09/15 |
TALS from Merton |
There are several good reasons for writing to you at this moment. One of them is that I have a |
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[writing to Fox who is visiting Citeaux] Dan Walsh visited Gethsemani / publishing and censorship concerns / farm work with the scholastics going well - down in the valley where there were "no machines" / Dom Louis and questions at the General Chapter / a transfer to the Camaldolese / Dom Anselmo Giabbani
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #26.
«All Series« |
1953/09/20 |
TALS from Merton |
My visit with you this Sunday morning is by letter, and I hope I am visiting you at Camaldoli. And |
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thoughts on new foundation - not enough staff to run it - few likely prospects of officers and Merton's thoughts on certain monks' qualifications / suggests buying property, starting to build, but not formerly starting foundation for three years (better yet, 5 or 6) / some in community angry about idea of new foundation
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #27.
«All Series« |
1953/09/25 |
TLS from Merton |
I was surprised and glad to get your note about Bob Lax-- but I don't mean I was surprised at Lax. |
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Robert Lax - vocation to have no vocation and will do more good that way - got Merton into the Church / proposed conferences for novices on prayer / almost set forest on fire while burning brush / Harcourt Brace and the Encyclical / New Directions and Bread in the Wilderness / new book - Sentences
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #28.
«All Series« |
1953/10/09 |
TALS from Merton |
Welcome back to America. I hope you are glad to be back and that you bring with you much spiritual |
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mental problems with a young priests - need to "qualify our declarations that our life is very high and exalted" to avoid more vocations with emotional problems / Merton no longer cares to be called a "good religious" by others / false rumors that Merton will run the new foundation but would be happy to go to California / Ann Skakel
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #29.
«All Series« |
1953/12/15 |
TACS from Merton |
With all my heart, and with whatever simplicity may be in my heart, I offer you all my best and most |
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[verso: Nativity scene with the Italian words "buon Natale"] one of the best Advents of his life / seeing past "corny" organ music, decorations, and other externals without bitterness
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #30.
«All Series« |
1954/02/07 |
TLS from Merton |
Several thoughts have struck me today as being indications of God's will. First- a line in the |
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St. Chantal and useless activity - Merton doesn't waste time but spends it on "futile activities" like the Scripture class instead of prayer and meditation / poverty - will try to limit his personal books / Camaldolese and the Feast of St. Romuald
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #31.
«All Series« |
1954/03/no |
TLS from Merton |
Things are going better on the points mentioned in last month's note-- use of time, spiritual |
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one interval a day spent studying the moral theology of the 7th, 8th and 10th Commandments for three days a week and another 3 days spent with the Greek New Testament / cutting down on correspondence for Lent except for book concerns - Action and Contemplation / illusion of detachment from creation
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #32.
«All Series« |
1954/04/04? |
TLS from Merton |
I resolved to make this note less of a formality, and really say something. This has been a good |
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main fault the last 12 years - "Continual, uninterrupted resentment. I resent and even hate Gethsemani." / asks for Fox's prayers
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #33.
«All Series« |
1954/05/no |
TLS from Merton |
In the last month things have continued to get more basic. More self-knowledge. Appalled by the |
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Merton laments "wasted effort", artificiality and the false self
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #34.
«All Series« |
1954/09/22 |
TALS from Merton |
I think I will enliven your day of recollection with a cold-blooded report on the whole question of |
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Materialism in the community and who is to blame - some (not Merton) blame Fox and claim he is too much the business man interested in "Wall Street", machines, rich benefactors - Merton agrees that Gethsemani is materialistic and suffers spiritually - blames modern machines but acknowledges that they must earn living
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #35.
«All Series« |
1954/11/29 |
TLS from Merton |
This is a report on our four days' retreat. They wer [sic] four pretty busy days, and in fact I |
✓ |
seeking more solitude but within Cistercian lifestyle - seeing others leave but feeling it is his call to stay
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #36.
«All Series« |
1954/11/no |
TLS from Merton |
I am no wiser than before. I am still getting myself crowded with more work than I can handle |
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"life less artificial, more real" / spending time in the woods and gaining some true interior solitude
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #37.
«All Series« |
1955/01/22 |
TLS from Merton |
I was going to write you a note listing all the reasons why I want to lead a solitary life. This |
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entitled, "TO JESUS-- through the person of Reverend Father." / asking what Jesus wants him to do
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #38.
«All Series« |
1955/03/no |
TLS from Merton |
In the past I have wasted time and effort on days of rec. and retreats by not orienting everything |
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acknowledging validity of aspiring to a personal vocation / Father Masters meetings a waste of time
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #39.
«All Series« |
1955/06/13? (#02) |
TALS from Merton |
Believing that God wills me to do so, I would like to re-open that old question of my vocation. As |
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vocation to solitary life - quote from Prummer that a vowed religious can seek a more perfect life and this cannot be overruled by Superior / consultation with Fr. Vincent Mary, C.P., Prior of Gethsemani and Dom Porion (Carthusian) / Merton not needed and transfer to Carthusians or Camaldolese would not cause scandal
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #40.
«All Series« |
1955/08/15 |
TLS from Merton |
I got a letter from Dom Gabriel this morning and it mystifies me a little. It tends to confirm my |
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does not think that Dom Gabriel Sortais or Dom Louis de Gonzague will allow Merton to live an eremitical life at Gethsemani - may revoke his fire tower / Frascati Camaldolese would accept Merton incognito - thinks it would be easier to seek solitude elsewhere - wants to go with Fox to General Chapter in Italy and try out Frascati
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #41.
«All Series« |
1956/no/no? |
HLS from Merton |
If my fifteen years of religious life have not been so good, at least I am thankful that I realize |
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rooting out that which serves his pride / try to actually teach novices and not just display his knowledge
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #42.
«All Series« |
1957/02/06 |
TLS from Merton |
I don't know where this will reach you, but if it finds you on retreat I hope it will not be much of |
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notes on novices - some working out and some leaving / life good as Novice Master with prayer and work in the woods
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #43.
«All Series« |
1957/08/04 |
HLS from Merton |
I guess the theme of today's recollection for me is - "With Christ I am nailed to the Cross." |
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no strength, hope or substance but in the Cross
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #44.
«All Series« |
1957/09/11 |
TLS from Merton |
Here it is Thursday afternoon, and I will talk to you on paper if not facie ad faciem. This morning |
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notes of progress of novices - good prospects and problems / Fr. Restrepo suggesting new foundation in his homeland of Colombia / small forest fire / looking for "good ideas for cheering up Trappist infirmaries" / Fox's work at the General Chapter / Postulant's Guide
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #45.
«All Series« |
1957/09/30 |
TLS from Merton |
Already the Feast of St Jerome, which means that tomorrow is October. How fast the months go by, |
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problems with novices and the many that have left or may leave - realizes that Trappist vocation is a rare one / international situation - Little Rock school integration and the unrest - Russia and the Middle East / General Chapter - changing Divine Office from Latin to English / ecumenical dialogue with Protestants
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #46.
«All Series« |
1957/11/no |
HLS from Merton |
I hope this has been a practical Day of Recollection. Anyway the atmosphere for me has been one of |
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realizes he may have been too independent in the past
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #47.
«All Series« |
1958/02/no |
HLS from Merton |
A very peaceful day - just stayed in one place, on account of our cold - only came out for High Mass |
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"I have to reach out and take in the whole universe in order to expand my heart."
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #48.
«All Series« |
1959/09/23 |
TLS from Merton |
Yesterday was the first I had heard about the dialogue Mass. Certainly it will be a very good thing |
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[see also Series 29, Fox quotes this letter from Merton in a memo, "From a letter of Father Louis to Reverend Father - September 23, 1959"] Merton supports dialogue Mass for the brothers, but only for the choir novices if there is communion at the conventual Mass / asking for a leave of absence from Gethsemani
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #49.
«All Series« |
1960/05/23 |
TALS from Merton |
This is written because I want it to be quasi-formal and official so to speak, and I would like to |
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Abbot General Sortais' censorship / misunderstanding by censor in Philosophy of Solitude that Merton thinks he is above the guidance of Superiors / suspects Sortais resents him going over his head to the Holy See / thinks about quitting as writer - extremes of "axe-grinding" vs. "pious journalism" / Protestant dialogue
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #50.
«All Series« |
1962/04/08 (#02) |
TL[c] from Merton to Gabriel Sortais |
Hier Dom James m'a donné le rapport des censeurs sur "Target-City" et en même temps vos lettres du |
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"Christian Ethics and Nuclear War" in Catholic Worker / defense of writings on nuclear war
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #51.
«All Series« |
1962/04/08? (#01) |
TNS from Merton |
I thought you might want to see a copy of the letter to the Abbot General. I didn't go into all |
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[attaches letter from Merton to Abbot General Gabriel Sortais from 1962/04/08] Kowalski / Merton not getting sleep
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #52.
«All Series« |
1962/no/08 |
TLS from Merton |
Just a few lines to get the essential business items down on paper. First of all I think Bro Aelred |
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status of novices doing well or leaving / censors and "St. Ignatius of Antioch on the Church" and the poem about the "Ladies' Jail"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #53.
«All Series« |
1964/07/10 (#01) |
TALS from Merton |
First of all a letter from Fr Illtud Evans says he would like to advance the date of the retreat to |
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[letter to Fox who left, or is about to leave, for a visitation to other monasteries] Illtud Evans / asking permission to do an article for Holiday magazine / Cuban who does not know English is applying for entry
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #54.
«All Series« |
1964/09/26 (#02) |
TLS[x] from Gillet, Ignace / to Merton |
J'ai bien reçu vos deux lettres du 11 septembre et tiens à vous en remercier sans tarder. Vous avez |
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[attached to a note to Dom James Fox] response to a letter to Gillet about changes to the monastic life in allowing Merton to live as a hermit
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #55.
«All Series« |
1964/09/26? (#03) |
TANS from Merton |
Here is a reply of Dom Ignace to the letter I spoke of. He seems in general fearful of a "special |
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against "special solution" in allowing Merton to live as a full hermit - possibility of hermitage cells dependent on monastery - discussion in General Chapter
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #56.
«All Series« |
1964/no/no? (#02) |
TLS from Merton |
I got in touch with Fr Paul as soon as I heard the results of the election and asked him to send the |
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election of new Abbot General - sending Ignace Gillet copy of Black Revolution (Seeds of Destruction) / articles have separately been approved for publishing - can they be joined as a book? / questions of building a little prayer shelter outside for novices, changes to Office - Liturgical Committee
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #57.
«All Series« |
1966/03/02 (#02) |
TNS from Merton |
Attached are the principal letter of mine to Marie Tadie over the period 1964 and 1965, during which |
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"Memo: concerning Marie Tadie and foreign rights"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #58.
«All Series« |
1966/03/02 (#03) |
TNS from Merton |
Re file and memo on Marie Tadie: Dear Rev Father. The copies of my letters to Marie Tadie and the |
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Tadié does not want to cooperate with New Directions - trouble between Tadié and Hoffman / Tadié first only wanted to handle prose but now wants poetry including Chuang Tzu book / in future Merton will not correspond with Tadié about business
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #59.
«All Series« |
1966/07/28 (#02) |
TLS from Merton |
In regard to our current "problems". I shall discuss possible psychological causes with Fr Eudes |
✓ |
Fr. John Eudes Bamberger and psychological evaluation / "fault does not lie with hermitage" nor will problems be solved by returning to community - still a need for contacts with "exceptional people" outside of monastery and in foreign countries
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #60.
«All Series« |
1966/07/29 (#02) |
TLS from Merton |
Will you let me make a couple of suggestions, about the future of hermits around here and related |
✓ |
create a system of open communications between hermits and superiors to avoid suspicion on both sides / affair with M. over / inspections of hermitage / second hermit moving in / no visits to hermits by monks - danger of homosexual affairs between some monks, Merton - "I am not so inclined"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #61.
«All Series« |
1966/08/07 (#02) |
TLS from Merton |
I think this ought to take care of the essentials, and I presume we agree on the essential |
✓ |
Merton promises not to smuggle out letters, make illicit phone calls, or leave monastery (even to Loretto) without permission / asking Fox to believe in him and not make it a relationship of distrust with fears of "constraint and (veiled) punitive measures" [attached document "Some Guidelines for Monastic Hermits"]
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #62.
«All Series« |
1966/08/07 (#03) |
TNS from Merton |
SOME GUIDELINES FOR MONASTIC HERMITS. 1. Monastic Hermits, that is to say members under vows of |
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vowed monks as hermits will continue to live under Rule of St. Benedict, except in matters of interaction with community and still obey an abbot / Merton provides 8 special rules applying to the hermits life (commits to these in the attached letter)
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #63.
«All Series« |
1966/11/04? (#01) |
TNS from Merton |
Best thing to do with Tadié is to say that you assure her we all personally want her to represent |
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tell Marie Tadié that the monastery wants to have her handle French, Spanish and Italian rights, but this must be cleared with publishers in America
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #64.
«All Series« |
1966/11/04? (#02) |
TNS from Merton |
Many thanks for writing Tadie. I wonder if you have received a reply from her yet. Doubtless she |
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Marie Tadié - might need to get a lawyer - let Bob McGregor from New Directions handle the matter - copy of letter to Naomi Burton Stone
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #65.
«All Series« |
1966/11/04? (#03) |
HLS from Merton |
About Marie Tadié- write that in her letter she lied in saying she was J H Griffin's agent. He told |
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Tadié not John Howard Griffin's agent, but translator / no need to pay her for use of photograph - it is owned by Gethsemani
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #66.
«All Series« |
1966/11/04? (#04) |
TAN from Merton |
As regards the terms for Marie Tadie: everything is ok except that in n. 9 as it stands, the Abbey |
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regarding a contract with Marie Tadié
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #67.
«All Series« |
1966/11/04? (#05) |
HNS from Merton |
In those points for M.Tadie maybe we ought to add: M. Tadie shall see to it that all books sold by |
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regarding a contract with Marie Tadié
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #68.
«All Series« |
1966/11/25 (#01) |
TL from Merton |
Inregard [sic] to the note of Marie Tadie dated Nov 4 and postmarked the 21st: This illustrates |
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drawbacks as having the same person as exclusive agent and translator - 9 books sold but not translated yet, dating back 6-7 years / she is getting more difficult to work with
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #69.
«All Series« |
1966/12/31 |
TLS from Merton |
The other daybyou [sic] mentioned something about how was I getting along "spiritually". As I said |
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events of last summer with "M." and thanks that the mistakes are over / continued struggles with emotional needs but states that he still wants to give himself totally to solitude / thinks that besides "this one emotional involvement", he has "been more truly [him]self than ever before"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #70.
«All Series« |
1966/no/no (#02) |
TNS from Merton |
I know a certain matter which is painful to both of us has come to your attention. I am not writing |
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apologizing for making calls [to "M."?] at night from the phone at the steel building / mentions when and how often it happened, but that it will not happen again / would have done this more, not less, if in the community and not at hermitage
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #71.
«All Series« |
1966/no/no (#03) |
TNS from Merton |
Please do not worry about me. I can see that a clean break is the only solution. Things are much |
|
making a clean break with "M." / Jim Wygal's help / "not suffering that much from loneliness" - hermitage and solitude not the problem, but a help in this
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #72.
«All Series« |
1966/no/no? (#04) |
TLS from Merton |
This is an important matter which I have been putting off but I guess I might as well state it |
✓ |
reasons for continuing to go for medical treatment in Louisville despite Merton's episode with a nursing student from Louisville - medically, since the doctors know his conditions better in Louisville - non-medically, since "M." moved from the area midsummer (1966) and will not likely come back
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #73.
«All Series« |
1968/10/20 (#01) |
HLS from Merton |
I have been waiting for a chance to thank you for your warm and gracious letter, which reached me |
|
[Merton writing from the Oberoi Grand Hotel in Calcutta] does not blame Fox for his past decisions / new openness in monastic life might lead to abuses - want his trip to be for a "spiritual goal" / finding Asian Buddhist meditation centers unknown in the West / Americans don't meditate nor "really know themselves"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #74.
«All Series« |
undated/03/25 (#02) |
TAN[c] from Merton to Fr. Gerald, O.C.S.O |
As you are still a member of the student body, I have a theoretical duty to take some interest in |
|
stresses simplicity and brevity in his sermons - avoidance of florid outpourings
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #75.
«All Series« |
undated/03/25? (#01) |
TNS from Merton |
I just wanted to say that the Annunciation sermon of Fr G. is a promise and a threat. There is |
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promise of good and threat of being very obnoxious - too theatrical and artificial - praised by Fr. Raymond
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #76.
«All Series« |
undated/03/30 |
TNS from Merton |
For the first time in weeks I am enjoying the unusual sensation-- of being temporarily convinced |
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feels that his existence is not purposeless, unlike most of the time - talk with Protestant seminarians helped - Br. Clement and others helped by building quiet cell over the new stairs
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #77.
«All Series« |
undated/10/22 |
HNS from Merton |
I want to say this in all simplicity, without interior motives. The work with the Bellarmine group |
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Bellarmine group talk cannot fit into regular part of Trappist life, but was personally enriching for Merton - does not think it could be repeated - would take away from instruction of novices and from his solitude / Our Lady of Peace
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #78.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#13) |
TLS from Merton |
Here is my frank opinion, as Master of Students, concerning the qualifications of Fr M.Paulinus |
|
"Report on Fr Paulinus, for ordinations" for major orders / Paulinus Grupa / "Report on Fr Francis of Assisi- for minor Orders "
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #79.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#14) |
TLS from Merton |
May Jesus be with you every step of the way and bless you all the time with His peace and His deep |
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everything Merton to write about Joseph Cassant in Waters of Siloe / need the Dictionnaire de Theologie Catholique / wants to know whether anyone Fox meets in Europe has any ideas about a greater life of solitude within the Cistercian life
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #80.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#15) |
TLS from Merton |
I spoke to Fr John Eudes about the possibility of his taking over the infirmary when Fr Anselm |
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Fr. John Eudes Bamberger possibly taking over infirmary / Fr. Bernard and teaching of Latin and French / possibility of a "shelter in the woods" - "simplest plans" and suggestions of brothers to do the work
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #81.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#16) |
TALS from Merton |
The title of this document ought to be: WHY DOESN'T FRATER LOUIS MIND HIS OWN BUSINESS? |
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"idiotic suggestions for the new year:" - regular, individual appointments instead of categories of people to avoid a few individuals constantly dominating meetings / delegate small matters to cellarer, guest master, etc. / appoint a canonist / more of Dom Vital's Liturgy talks / Master of Students for mental and spiritual guidance
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #82.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#17) |
TALS from Merton |
After a week of very fruitful prayer, suffering and reflection, I am happy and at peace. So I think |
|
leaving decision of the future of his vocation in Fox's hands - thinks it must be in solitude - since Camaldolese are out of the question and since Fox won't allow him to be a hermit at Gethsemani, he asks for transfer to the Carthusians
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #83.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#18) |
HLS from Merton |
As you will see by this letter, Marie Tadié is becoming impossible. In any case I do not feel I |
|
troubles with Marie Tadié
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #84.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#19) |
TAL from Merton |
If you wish to continue battling Marie Tadie, then I suggest that we make a clear and strict |
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troubles with Marie Tadié / proposes "strict legal contract"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #85.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#20) |
HLS from Merton |
I would say it would be all right to compromise on time of the agreement- maybe 5 years. We should |
|
regarding a contract with Marie Tadié / getting rid of Tadié's distinction as agent, at least for articles
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #86.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#21) |
HLS from Merton |
About Marie Tadié. More succinctly we could reply as follows[:] Since she rejects our conditions |
|
since Tadié rejects conditions as agent, Fox should tell her that they would be happy to leave her only as translator
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #87.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#22) |
TAN from Merton |
PERSONAL SCHEDULE [-] Br M Louis. 2.15 Rise, Lauds. Followed by Meditation until 4. Breakfast. |
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full daily schedule / three or more hours of mental prayer each day / Psalter said continuously / only coffee for breakfast in fast seasons / work clothes and sandals for foot condition and weather permitting
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #88.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#23) |
TNS from Merton |
This is a special delivery, and it may sound enthusiastic as I have been spending the entire day (of |
|
spending day of recollection in "Everest Edelin's valley" / Br. Colman and building a log house as a hermitage on a rotating schedule
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #89.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#24) |
TNS from Merton |
This is a post mortem on today's sermon. It occurred to me, perhaps as a temptation, to think you |
|
seeking perfection - controversy in community and misunderstandings over Merton's stand on the subject
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #90.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#25) |
HNS from Merton |
It is perhaps silly for me to write you this note, but of course you will understand it. I feel |
|
Merton assumes Fox angry at Godfrey Diekmann letter (see "Diekmann, Godfrey Leo" file) / Fox's aggression to Merton in chapter / Fox assumes vanity in Merton's success as a writer / "born a writer" - if Merton can't write he "might as well die" - will continue to write in solitude, but not as present pace / Edelin's valley
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #91.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#26) |
TAN from Merton |
One thing occurred to me about this letter and Card. Tardini he mentions " Fr M. and others with |
|
Merton disputes statement by Cardinal Tardini that he is conducting experiments and that others are involved - Fr. Gerard Majella mentioned Marian plan to Tardini - this might be the confusion / retreatants will not interfere Merton's work with novices / work with Jewish Seminarians, Bellarmine students and Protestants
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #92.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#27) |
TANS from Merton |
Thanks for your kind note. It makes everything clear and I am glad you understand. Purification it |
|
"nervous reactions which come along when I think someone is out to get me" / spent less than ten hours on writing in the last three weeks
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #93.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#28) |
TNS from Merton |
In my opinion no vow taken by a member of our Order to pass to a "higher life" would be valid. Our |
|
St. Bernard, stability, and the possibility of a call to a higher life
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #94.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#29) |
TNS from Merton |
It seems to me that my soul feels less and less at home in this body of death. I know that my true |
|
grim commentary on Merton's existence on this earth
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #95.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#30) |
HLS from Merton |
I am preparing for Lent with a heavy cold. Penitential beginning to a penitential season. Today - |
|
thinking about the fundamentals of silence and mortification
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #96.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#31) |
TNS from Merton |
In regard to the Spanish translation of the Cuadra letter, now censored by Fr Augustine: 1) May I |
|
Disputed Questions / "Letter to Cuadra Concerning Giants" / the Abbot General
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #97.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#32) |
TNS from Merton |
As you gave me permission some time ago, I am now starting a private retreat for a few days. This |
|
private retreat in the woods
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #98.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#33) |
TNS from Merton |
Paradiso! Maybe this is going to be a real good retreat. However one of the first things I |
|
forgot to ask Fr. Matthew to get some clavichord records of Bach from one of his friends / "the value hidden in ordinary everyday opportunities" through the love of God
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #99.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#34) |
HNS from Merton |
Do you think somebody could teach the novices how to say "Citeaux"? See-toe C is not |
|
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #100.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#35) |
TLS from Merton |
Just a note to welcome you home on the anniversary of your entrance into Gethsemani. It can be a |
|
Gethsemani - "heartbreaking place and yet a place of joy"
«detailed view» |
Series 7 #101.
«All Series« |
undated/no/no (#36) |
HLS from Merton |
I assure you of special prayers and all best wishes for every grace and joy on your Feast Day - may |
|
«detailed view» |