<p>Acknowledged as one of the most profound modern commentators on Christian mysticism, Evelyn Underhill did not easily find her own spiritual path.&nbsp; Between 1911 and 1921 she wrestled to understand spiritual experiences via academic research into early Christian mysticism and the life of individual mystics.&nbsp; This led her into active contemplation and, eventually, to the formation of her own profound view of the mystical path.</p>

<p><em>The Spiritual Life</em> derives from a series of four talks, broadcast on the BBC during the 1930s; its purpose is to circumvent technical theological terminology and to describe &ldquo;some of the great truths concerning man&rsquo;s spiritual life in simple language&rdquo;.&nbsp; In this Underhill succeeds admirably, and the book has become a well-deserved classic.&nbsp; <em>The Spiral Path</em> is a longer study, describing the Christian path of fifteen mysteries that are to be followed in the soul&rsquo;s ascent to God.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both works are written in plain, easy-to-understand language - garnished with the wit and gentle wisdom that has made Evelyn Underhill a must-read for all who struggle to follow a spiritual life in the modern world.</p>