The Examined Life: How We Lose and Find Ourselves

A collection of stories created by a well-known psychoanalyst is based on his 25 years of experience. These stories captivate like detective novels and are filled with love and hope, revealing the subtleties of the human psyche.

Many of us know moments when we get stuck in our own thoughts or intentions, become prisoners of impulsive actions or bad decisions, suffer because of failed relationships or the past. This creates a feeling of stagnation—but there is always a way out. No matter what difficulties darken your life, you can overcome them, just like the characters in this book, written in the genre of psychotherapeutic prose, reminiscent of Irvin Yalom’s works.

The collection presents fascinating stories based on the author’s rich experience as a psychoanalyst. Stephen Gross describes each story with tact and directness, as it unfolds like a detective case. The patients’ problems turn out to be only the visible part of the iceberg. A detailed description of the therapeutic process always leads to an astonishing resolution—when a person realizes the true reasons behind their experiences. The themes range from grief over loss and betrayal to pathological lying. Watching these stories, you’ll surely discover something new—taking another step toward mastering the art of living freely, with dignity, and happily.