Reading fiction for insight

An online study group with Daniel Simpson

Wednesdays, April 8 - 29, 2020

7:00 - 8:00 PM (UK)

Can wisdom be taught or does it have to be lived? Siddhartha is a classic account of the spiritual quest, balancing worldly and yogic objectives.

Set at the time of the Buddha, 2,500 years ago, Hermann Hesse’s novel brings history to life. Many of Siddhartha’s dilemmas still echo today, exploring a path between indulgence and self-discipline. How do we find the right teacher to show us ourselves? Can we follow our hearts without being controlled by our desires? 

Discussing these questions together in four weekly sessions, we’ll relate the book’s themes to modern life. We’ll consider what liberation means, and whether seeking stop us finding. We’ll also look at some of Hesse’s influences, from early Upanishads to the teachings of the Buddha - and the yogic ascetics with whom he studied before his awakening. 

Does silence speak louder than words? Can fiction get closer to truth than philosophy and history? Siddhartha encourages readers to find their own answers. Each week, we’ll prepare for the session by reading three chapters. Some suggestions for themes to consider are offered in handouts. However, everyone is free to contribute as they wish.

The first handout is available here. Please read the opening three chapters before April 8. I recommend the English translation by Hilda Rosner, but it’s fine to read any edition. There’s a version online if deliveries aren’t feasible.

Format

We meet using Zoom, an interactive video app. It’s a structured discussion, with a focus that’s shaped by participants’ interests.

You can also ask questions by email, or in a private Facebook group. If you’re unable to join us live, recordings are available to catch up later.

We start at 7:00 PM, UK time (2:00 PM in New York and 11:00 AM in California), and sessions last an hour - or slightly longer if needed.

About the Facilitator

Daniel Simpson presents ancient texts for modern times.

He teaches courses on yoga philosophy at the Oxford Centre for Hindu Studies, at Triyoga in London, and on teacher trainings.

He holds a Master’s degree from SOAS, University of London, where he studied with some of the world’s leading scholars of yoga.

He is also a devoted practitioner, having first encountered yoga in India in the 1990s. His practical guidebook to yoga philosophy will be published soon.

Endorsements

Student feedback from previous courses.