Define contemplation and the "interior life" that shapes so much of Merton's thinking. What is the interior life? Why is it important? Is it important to everyone or only those who are called to be monks? How does your answer jibe with the last quote above?

Discuss Merton's communal perspective in which he promotes the notion that all men share the blame for all the evils in the world—from the poverty of Harlem to the atrocities of World War II.

Discuss Merton's family life. Unstable and constantly in flux as it was, his father, grandparents, and aunt still seem to be the most important people in his life.

What is a vocation and how do you think one discovers if he/she has one? Read the last quote above and discuss what your vocation might be.

Why do you think Merton never...