cover image Wrestling with the Angel: A Memoir of My Triumph Over Illness

Wrestling with the Angel: A Memoir of My Triumph Over Illness

Max Lerner. W. W. Norton & Company, $18.95 (210pp) ISBN 978-0-393-02846-1

Drawing on his diaries, noted journalist, teacher and writer Lerner here narrates and meditates on how, starting at age 78, he survived two bouts of cancer and a heart attack--all within five years. Though giving most of the credit for this feat to his fortunate access to sophisticated medical therapy, Lerner also made a mighty effort to retain his ``selfhood'' and control his options. What distinguishes his account is the author's ability to summon up his psychic forces to engage in death-defying combat and, despite pain and physical debilitation, to continue writing and teaching. At 88 still a restful man, he accepts the inevitability of dying, while taking responsibility, with the ``great Intervener,'' for his health and his happiness. (July)