Thomas Merton

Merton is a contemplative at heart and never rests until he finds a life of quiet labor and contemplation with the Trappists.

He is intelligent and well-read. In fact, reading is an important part of his life. Many of his decisions and opinions on life are shaped by the authors he reads, many of whom were contemporary philosophers.

He knows at least two living languages and some Latin. He has lived in three countries. He seems to make friends and influence people easily. He appreciates beauty and has an eye for art and color and seasons and space. He appreciates simplicity in others and purity of heart.

He is single and never marries, choosing instead, eventually, to make his vows to a celibate lifestyle. Though not an introvert, he has an active inward life, constantly thinking, mulling over problems and possibilities and patterns. He enjoys the serene...