Thomas Merton, Lawrence Ferlinghetti, and the Protection of All Beings

The unlikely friendship between Lawrence Ferlinghetti, a prominent Beat poet and publisher, and Thomas Merton, a Trappist monk, highlights a unique collaboration that spanned a decade. Despite their contrasting lifestyles and philosophies, they shared mutual respect and engaged in meaningful exchanges until Merton's premature passing. Their relationship illustrates the intersection of art and spirituality, showcasing how two distinct paths can converge in profound ways.