The Cloud of Unknowing

Written in Middle English sometime in the latter half of the 14th century, ‘The Cloud of Unknowing’ is an anonymous work of Christian Mysticism. Surviving to us in only seventeen known manuscripts, it is meant as a spiritual guide of contemplation upon God. The work advises not to seek a better understanding of God through knowledge and intellect, but rather to surrender oneself to the darkness of the realm of the ‘unknowing’.
It is here, whereby the abandonment of consideration of the particular attributes of God, which it is argued cannot truly be known to man, is replaced with intense contemplation that may lead to an understanding of the true nature of God. A fascinating work of Christian literature, its abstract and at times paradoxical argument will give great insight into the mind of the Medieval Christian mystic.

Evelyn Underhill (1875–1941) was a prominent English writer, mystic, and theologian best known for her work on Christian mysticism and spiritual life. Born in Wolverhampton, England, she was educated at King’s College London, where she developed a deep interest in philosophy, religion, and the inner life. Though raised in the Church of England, she explored various spiritual traditions, including Neoplatonism and Catholic mysticism, which influenced her later writings.
Her most influential book, Mysticism (1911), is a comprehensive study of the mystical experience across different religions and remains a classic in the field. She followed it with other significant works such as Practical Mysticism (1914), The Spiritual Life (1937), and Worship (1936), emphasizing the personal experience of the divine and the role of contemplative prayer in daily life.
In her middle years, Underhill became a respected retreat leader, spiritual director, and theological lecturer. She was the first woman to lecture on theology at Oxford University and was widely admired for making mysticism accessible to ordinary people. She played a significant role in the revival of spiritual direction in Anglicanism.
Evelyn Underhill died in 1941 in London. Her writings continue to influence Christian spirituality, especially in the Anglican and contemplative traditions.