On the one hand Schuon is relentlessly discerning in his critique of modern errors such as existentialism rationalism and the so-called realism that labels as abstractions all principal realities. On the other one will be struck with the author's gift for evoking a profound recollection of the sacredness of creation and the message of beauty in manifestation. At the core of this wisdom is the Platonic adage Beauty is the splendour of the True which expresses the primordial intimate and inalienable relationship between the Real and the Beautiful. The essays collected here cover a wide range of subjects including the fundamental principles of spiritual symbolism questions on the afterlife and many invaluable insights concerning the integration of everyday activities into spiritual life. Many today are seeking within traditional wisdom for a holistic viewpoint that can refute the systematic ugliness of the modern world. Known for his intellectual universality Schuon is unequalled among living writers in elucidating the spiritual intention of traditional doctrines forms and practices while at the same time defending the need for the religious framework that safeguards their efficacy.