The Long Loneliness by Dorothy Day is a memoir detailing her journey from a childhood curiosity about religion to her involvement in socialism and communism, ultimately finding a lifelong commitment to Catholicism. The narrative encompasses her relationship with activist Peter Maurin and the creation of the Catholic Worker Movement, emphasizing her dedication to social justice, community, and love informed by Christian principles.

Reviews of The Long Loneliness by Dorothy Day praise its compelling memoir-style narrative and its profound exploration of social justice and faith. Day's rich personal experiences and introspective storytelling are cited as strengths. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the tone too introspective at times. Overall, it is lauded for its inspiring and thought-provoking content.

A reader who would enjoy The Long Loneliness by Dorothy Day is typically interested in autobiographies, social justice, and Catholic spirituality. Comparable works include Thomas Merton’s The Seven Storey Mountain and Nelson Mandela’s Long Walk to Freedom, as they all explore intimate journeys of personal transformation and activism.

Contemplative / Inspirational / Emotional / Heartwarming / Melancholic

- Dorothy Day's The Long Loneliness is often celebrated for its portrayal of her conversion journey from a bohemian lifestyle to one of religious commitment, making it not just a memoir but also a spiritual autobiography.
- The book title, The Long Loneliness, reflects Dorothy Day's profound sense of longing and search for community and purpose throughout various stages of her life.

Dorothy Day

Adult

Autobiography / Memoir

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Long Loneliness and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Long Loneliness Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “Searching”

Chapters 1-4

The Long Loneliness Chapters 1-4 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 5-7

The Long Loneliness Chapters 5-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-10

The Long Loneliness Chapters 8-10 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 11-14

The Long Loneliness Chapters 11-14 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “Natural Happiness”

Chapters 15-18

The Long Loneliness Chapters 15-18 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Love is the Measure”

Chapters 19-21

The Long Loneliness Chapters 19-21 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 22-25

The Long Loneliness Chapters 22-25 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 26-28

The Long Loneliness Chapters 26-28 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Long Loneliness Key Figures

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Themes

The Long Loneliness Themes

Symbols & Motifs

The Long Loneliness Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

The Long Loneliness Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Long Loneliness Essay Topics

The Long Loneliness

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Long Loneliness?

Reading Age

Book Details