The Search for Meaning: Americans Talk about What They Believe and Why

In this oral history, Berman ( The Courage to Grow Old ) captures the voices of a variety of Americans as they discuss the meaning of life and the paths they are taking to realize that meaning. ``How we ought to live on this tiny planet in this immense and incomprehensible universe'' is, in one subject's words, the concern of these people who speak of pivotal experiences in their lives. The approaches are diverse. We hear from hedonists for whom sex is dominant; from two women who make joy palpable in the Soul Sisters Cafe; from a former Jesuit seminarian whose concept of God is radically expanded from earlier catechetical teachings; from a Ku Klux Klanner; an Auschwitz survivor; a sanctuary worker--all speaking of their moral and spiritual beliefs or lack thereof. The interviews are compelling in their revelations and unpredictability. Photos not seen by PW. (Sept.)