The Cloud of Unknowing

In fourteenth-century England an anonymous monk wrote an extraordinary text illuminating the life of contemplative devotion and the drama of the soul’s union with God. Precariously heretical in its day, it became a classic of Christian mystical thought.

Dr. Ira Progoff’s brilliant new translation and commentary illustrate The Cloud of Unknowing’s ongoing relevance. Dr. Progoff reveals a bridge spanning the perilous abyss between modern psychology’s self-conscious analytic thought and the pressing spiritual needs of modern man.

Praise for Ira Progoff’s The Cloud of Unknowing

“One of the classic guides to spiritual experience revealing the dynamics of the inner life.”—The Washington Post

“[Dr. Progoff’s] translation makes a psychological genius come alive.”—Harry A. Overstreet

“Astonishingly modern and timely . . . This fourteenth-century mystic speaks to us with a message that is as vital today as it was then.”—New York Post

“Translated from archaic to modern English with lucidity and fine comprehension . . . a delightful surprise.”—The Dayton Journal Herald

Standard and Primary covers are widely available through general retailers. They often have higher print runs and can be cheaper, especially during sales.

In contrast, Direct Market (DM) and variant covers are primarily sold in comic shops. DM editions tend to have more limited availability and may be more valuable to collectors.

The main differences lie in artwork style, availability, price, and collector appeal. Ultimately, the choice between standard and variant covers depends on personal preference, budget, and individual collecting goals.

Comic book enthusiasts have various formats to choose from when collecting their favorite stories.
Here's a brief overview of the main types:

Omnibus

• Large, hardcover collections
• Usually contain complete runs or extensive story arcs
• Typically 800-1000+ pages
• Higher price point, often €100-€150

Oversized Hardcover (OHC)

• Similar dimensions to omnibus, but thinner
• Collect shorter runs or story arcs
• Usually 300-600 pages
• Priced between €30-€50

Hardcover (HC)

• Standard-sized hardcover books
• Collect 6-12 issues typically
• Similar dimensions to single issues, but with a hard cover
• Priced around €25-€35

Trade Paperback (TP)

• Softcover collections
• Standard comic book size
• Usually collect 4-6 issues
• Most affordable option, typically €15-€25

Other Formats

• Absolute Editions: Oversized, deluxe hardcovers (mainly DC Comics)
• Compendiums: Massive paperback collections
• Graphic Novels (OGN/GN): Original stories not previously released as single issues

The choice between these formats often depends on personal preference, budget, and collecting goals. Omnibus and OHC editions offer larger artwork and more content but at a higher price, while TPs provide a more affordable way to collect complete story arcs