Psychotherapist Irvin D. Yalom probes further into the mysteries from the therapeutic encounter within this amusing and thoughtful follow-up to his bestselling Love’s Executioner

In six enthralling tales drawn from his own clinical experience, Irvin D. Yalom once again shows himself an intrepid explorer from the human being psyche as he guides his patients-and himself-toward transformation. With eloquent detail and sharp-eyed observation, Yalom presents us to a unforgettable cast of individuals. Drifting through his dreams and trampling through his thoughts are Paula, Yalom’s “courtesan of death”; Myrna, whose eavesdropping provides new indicating to patient confidentiality; Magnolia, into whose adequate lap Yalom longs to pour his own sorrows, even while he strives to ease hers; and Momma-ill-tempered, overpowering, and suffocating her boy with both like and disapproval. A richly rewarding, almost illicit glimpse in to the therapist’s heart and brain, Momma and the Meaning of Existence illuminates the initial potential of every human relationship.

“A remarkable commentary over the bond between patient and therapist.”-Nick Nolte, actor