Book Review | Make the Most of Your Rage
This, I confess up front, is not a book for me. I am not inclined to seek spiritual enlightenment through the words of gurus, sages and charlatans. I’m also really bad at taking advice. You could argue that I’m probably the right kind of person for a book like this and that this review isn’t about me. So let’s continue.
The author is a veteran journalist and was editor of the magazine for many years. The Times of India the spiritual section, especially the very popular Conversation Tree. He also wrote on environment, philosophy and social issues. Narayani Ganesh draws on his long experience and familiarity with spiritual leaders and minds of all colors and reputations to put together this little book.
The subject itself is vital; What is it that causes us to lose control, and what can and should we do to rein in our worst instincts? Is anger merely bad, or is there any good to be gained from it? What are the different types of anger and how should they be processed differently?
There is a wide range of voices, from Buddha to Krishna to Muhammad and their more secular exponents, from the Dalai Lama to Thich Nhat Hanh and pop gurus like Sri Sri Ravi Shankar. There are also a small number of philosophers and psychiatrists.
The book covers genres of anger and includes more contemporary phenomena such as road rage and the misogyny of young “thin” men. But we glimpse possibilities and realities without either weight or depth. Part of the problem is the size and format of the book – it’s a quick read that doesn’t dive too deep into topics to provide resources you can go to for further ideas or solace.
My two favorite parts of the book are the interviews with the Dalai Lama and Shantum Seth about how they manage their anger. I must admit that Seth is a friend; yet his journey from angry young man to Dharmacharya will help many.
The sections on how to manage your anger will also be helpful to many people. I wish more time had been spent on the idea of ”righteous” anger and anger at injustice, which would lead one to try to improve the world or the state of suffering.
I don’t insult Anger calling it a self-help book. But this is kind of an introduction to how you can embark on a journey of self-discovery if you’re so inclined and confused about who to follow for direction. Here you will find a wide variety of voices from many philosophies and belief systems, so you can choose the one that suits your current framework of thought.
For the knowledgeable or self-aware reader, this book will not work. For beginners, for eager novices on the journey of self-discovery. For them there are hidden and obvious jewels in the midst of the obvious.
Anger: Why Do We Get Angry and How Should We Respond to Provocation?
By Narayani Ganesh
Aleph
p. 186; 699 rupees
