The Circle of Quiet: Unlocking the Mysteries of The Crosswicks Journals

Have you ever found solace in the words of a beloved author? Have you ever felt a connection to someone's innermost thoughts and struggles? Madeleine L'Engle, the American author of beloved children's novel "A Wrinkle in Time," offers readers a glimpse into her own inner world through her captivating and introspective memoirs, known as "The Crosswicks Journals." In this article, we delve into the first book of the series, "A Circle of Quiet," and explore the profound insights, personal stories, and wisdom contained within.

Uncovering the Essence of "The Circle of Quiet"

"A Circle of Quiet" is the first installment in a quadrilogy of memoirs, collectively known as "The Crosswicks Journals." Each volume explores a different aspect of L'Engle's life, allowing readers to witness her growth, triumphs, and struggles along the way. Published in 1972, "A Circle of Quiet" introduces readers to the idyllic Crosswicks farmhouse in rural Connecticut, which serves as a sanctuary for L'Engle and her family.

In this captivating memoir, L'Engle reflects on her writing process, her deep love for her family, her spiritual journey, and her thoughts on society. L'Engle's unique ability to intertwine personal anecdotes with philosophical musings and literary insights creates a rich tapestry of thought-provoking ideas. As readers, we are invited to join L'Engle on her quest for meaning and purpose, as she navigates the joys and challenges of everyday life.

A Circle of Quiet (The Crosswicks Journals Book 1)

by Madeleine L'Engle (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5821 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Finding Clarity in the "Quiet"

While "A Circle of Quiet" may initially seem like a simple memoir, it quickly reveals itself to be a profound exploration of creativity, spirituality, and the complexities of human existence. L'Engle's reflections on the writing process offer valuable insights to aspiring writers and artists, as she unveils the struggles and rewards of embracing one's creative calling.

In this memoir, L'Engle encourages readers to embrace solitude and silence as catalysts for creativity. She believes that amidst the chaos of the modern world, it is essential to carve out quiet spaces in our lives where we can truly listen to our inner voices. L'Engle's belief in the power of "the circle of quiet" to fuel creative endeavors resonates deeply with readers, inspiring us to create our own sacred spaces for introspection and reflection.

Exploring the Crosswicks Farmhouse

The Crosswicks farmhouse serves as a central character in "A Circle of Quiet." As L'Engle recounts her various experiences within its walls, readers gain a deeper understanding of the unique role this idyllic setting plays in her life and writing. The farmhouse becomes a physical representation of respite, faith, and familial love.

L'Engle's descriptions of the Crosswicks farmhouse are vivid and immersive. From the creaking floors to the fragrant garden, readers are transported to this bucolic haven, providing a sensory experience that enriches our reading journey. Through her evocative prose, L'Engle invites us to embrace the beauty of the natural world and find solace in the simplicity of country living.

A Journey of Reflection and Discovery

"A Circle of Quiet" serves as a vessel for L'Engle's philosophical contemplations on a myriad of topics. From her musings on feminism and motherhood to her thoughts on religion and the interconnectedness of all things, L'Engle imparts wisdom born out of her own experiences and observations.

One of the greatest gifts of this memoir is the raw honesty with which L'Engle shares her vulnerabilities and doubts. Throughout its pages, we witness her grappling with her own identity, the demands of society, and the pursuit of authentic self-expression. In a world that often seeks simplistic answers, L'Engle challenges us to embrace the complexity and contradictions that make us uniquely human.

"A Circle of Quiet" offers readers an intimate glimpse into Madeleine L'Engle's inner world. Through her eloquent prose and profound insights, L'Engle invites us to contemplate life's big questions, finding inspiration in the beauty of nature, the power of silence, and the transformative potential of embracing our authentic selves. As we embark on this journey with L'Engle, we are reminded of the importance of seeking our own circle of quiet in an increasingly noisy world.

The Crosswicks Journals provide readers with not only a captivating memoir but also a roadmap to self-discovery and personal growth. L'Engle's words have the power to touch our hearts and awaken our souls, making "A Circle of Quiet" an indispensable addition to any bookshelf.

A Circle of Quiet (The Crosswicks Journals Book 1)

by Madeleine L'Engle (Kindle Edition)

4.4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5821 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	258 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

The beloved author of A Wrinkle in Time takes an introspective look at her life and muses on creativity in this memoir, the first of her Crosswicks Journals.

Every so often I need OUT. . . . My special place is a small brook in a green glade, a circle of quiet from which there is no visible sign of human beings. . . . I sit there, dangling my legs and looking through the foliage at the sky reflected in the water, and things slowly come back into perspective.
 
Set against the lush backdrop of Crosswicks, her family’s farmhouse in rural Connecticut, this deeply personal memoir details Madeleine L’Engle’s journey to find balance between her career as a Newbery Medal–winning author and her responsibilities as a wife, mother, teacher, and Christian.
 
As she considers the roles that creativity, family, citizenship, and faith play in her life, L’Engle reveals the complexities behind the author whose works—honored with the National Book Award, the Lewis Carroll Shelf Award, and countless other prizes—have long been cherished by children and adults alike. Written in simple, profound, and often humorous prose, A Circle of Quiet is an insightful woman’s elegant search for the meaning and purpose of her life.
 
This ebook features an illustrated biography of Madeleine L’Engle including rare images from the author’s estate.