Knights Without Armor: A Practical Guide for Men in Quest of Masculine Soul Book

Something is stirring in the hearts of men. Many feel angry and trapped by restrictive roles and jobs that just don't fit. They long for more authenticity and meaningful, impassioned relationships. Others are beginning to speak about their grief, their confusion, and their unrealized dreams. All are seeking new ways to express what it means to be a man in our time. Knights Without Armor is a book for all those men - and the women who care about them. It begins as an insider's description of a men's group that started as a poker game and ended in discoveries that radically changed the players' lives. In their group, the "knights" discuss breaking out of old stereotypes of masculinity; healing father-son relationships; facing men's wounds and male oppression; reclaiming ancient, sacred masculine images; creating better partnerships with women; learning to overcome workaholism, alcoholism, and other addictions. Aaron R. Kipnis, a psychotherapist and leader of men's groups, describes in detail an emerging image of manhood. He examines the costs for men of living up to the old heroic ideal, as well as the problems of the more recent image of the soft, sensitive male. He responds with a third possibility - an authentic masculinity that is strong and fierce, yet gentle and flexible; spontaneous and playful, yet thoughtful and perceptive; visionary and soulful, yet grounded and practical. Kipnis offers "The Twelve Tasks of Men" as useful guidance in examining the major problems men have in opening up their lives. His "Male Manifesto" is a clarion call for a positive image of masculine values. He teaches men how to experience new male archetypes, how to organize support groups, and how to advocate men's social and political rights. Kipnis also ties current social and political dilemmas to destructive historical and mythological images about men. This comprehensive and insightful work is nourishing reading for any man in quest of masculine soul.

A book that goes beyond the bestselling Iron John to provide real-life practical ideas for the emerging new man. By far the most comprehensive and practical book available on the topic, its promise is nothing less than the reclaiming of masculine soul. "A powerful volume, " says Publishers Weekly.