The Way of the Superior Man: A Spiritual Guide to Mastering the Challenges of Women, Work, and Sexual Desire by David Deida
The Way of the Superior Man written by David Deida, is an exploration into different aspects of a man’s life, showing him how to become the kind of man he most deeply yearns to be and live the life he desires. Spanning topics such as relationships, sexuality, work, and spirituality, The Way of the Superior Man is designed to help men break away from traditional role expectations and take full control of their lives.
In this book, Deida explores four paths that men can take in order to live life more fully. They are the paths of the “householder”, the “renunciate”, the “warrior”, and the “king”. By reflecting upon each of these paths and what advantages and disadvantages they offer, Deida encourages men to embrace whichever path is most suited to them.
The first path Deida outlines for men is that of the householder. The householder is viewed as a man who is dedicated to his career and family, striving to be successful and establishing a solid foundation. This is the most traditional and common path for men, however, and Deida states that this path is often unfulfilling if it is followed without any form of spiritual development.
The second path outlined is that of the renunciate. This path is one that is devoted entirely to self-discovery and spiritual development. Deida states that while it is the path of least resistance, it is also the most difficult to master. He encourages men to find a balance between the two paths depending on which one was the right one to follow in any given situation.
The third path Deida writes about is that of the warrior. This is the path where a man is not afraid to do whatever it takes to make his dreams a reality. He is focused and determined, taking every opportunity he can to improve and further his goals. However, Deida also warns that men must be careful not to do anything against their morals or beliefs in the pursuit of their goals.
The fourth path Deida outlines is that of the king. This path is one in which a man has developed emotional balance and restraint. He has fully embraced his masculinity and is secure in his own power. He has moved beyond personal gain and into a position where he is content to just be and serve the world in whatever way he can.
The Way of the Superior Man effectively outlines what it means to be a man living in the modern world. From the traditional householder to the spiritual king, the book offers advice on how to take control of your life in a way that is true to yourself and identifies which paths are the most rewarding and satisfying. Drawing from years of experience, Deida provides honest and practical advice that can be applied to any man in any situation.