RANCHO PALOS VERDES, Calif., March 13, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- What is the meaning and purpose of human existence? Richey Novak's new book, The Call of the Cosmos: An Introduction to Pragmatic Mysticism (now available through 1stBooks Library), attempts to tackle this difficult question. Instead of the traditional religious explanations of the cosmic world, The Call of the Cosmos presents a new perspective, which Novak hopes will better readers' understanding of the "complexity of modern life."
Novak defines "pragmatic mysticism" as "a useful, secular, realistic approach for wrestling with the most profound questions that humans are capable of asking." He states that the "cosmos" call out to humanity, through the "senses, intellect, emotions and life experiences" of man, in order to wake him up. His book discusses what happens as man and the "universe" become "aware" of their own existences.
The Call of the Cosmos centers on helping readers feel more "at home" in their skins by increasing their awareness and comprehension of the universe. Viewing this "big picture" (or viewing life from a cosmic perspective) is one of the most important aspects of the book, Novak notes. A unique aspect of the book is that it does not recognize any "divine powers or entities."
Aimed at those who can no longer accept the conventional legends and inadequate perspectives presented by many religions, The Call of the Cosmos conveys a complex message written in simple and straightforward language.
Although he and his wife currently reside in California, Novak was born and bred in Palestine, Texas. He is fluent in English, German and French and has a working knowledge of Portuguese, Spanish and some "Farsi" (Persian). He has a bachelor's and a master's degree in philosophy and a doctorate's degree in German. In addition, he has studied and taught all over the world. Most recently, he was a visiting professor of English at the State University of Ceara in Fortaleza, Brazil. The Call of the Cosmos is Novak's second book. His first, The Mundane Mystic, was published through 1stBooks Library in 1999.
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