Wise by Frank Tallis review

A psychologist’s gripping guide to surviving dark nights of the soul offers both comfort and insight

Wise by Frank Tallis review

TL;DR

  • Midlife crises can be partly attributed to a Western reluctance to confront mortality.
  • The book "Wise" by Frank Tallis suggests reframing midlife crises as heroic "descents" rather than shameful experiences.
  • Mythological figures like Odysseus and Dante experienced symbolic descents during critical life phases.
  • Carl Jung viewed breakdowns as necessary "descents" preceding wisdom and peace.
  • The search for meaning, even during a crisis, can be a saving force, as observed by Viktor Frankl.
  • The author recommends Tallis's book and suggests further reading on mortality and meaning.