John S. Dunne holds the John A. O'Brian Chair in Theology at the University of Notre Dame. He is one of the most literate spiritual writers of our time with a unique ability to find just the right quotations from a wide variety of sources to amplify his ideas. In this erudite meditation on contemplative life, for example, there are references to J. R. R. Tolkien, St. Augustine, St. John of the Cross, George McDonald, Martin Buber, Walter Benjamin, and many others.

Dunne's goal is to explore the ways we bring "our divided heart to God to be made whole." He looks at words, music, and spiritual friendships as three features of the contemplative path. By reading our experiences and our relationships, we draw nearer to our heart's desire. Dunne believes that letting God be first in our heart is the key to a life of love.

Near the end of the book, the author explores his version of the city of God. It is a city of the heart where the light of contemplation illuminates action and enjoyment.