Recalling the trauma of losing his worldly goods, the novelist and travel writer uses silence as a path to peace amid constant turmoil.

Sunday, Feb. 2, is the feast of the Presentation of the Lord. Mass readings: Malachi 3:1-4; Psalm 24:7, 8, 9, 10; Hebrews 2:14-18; Luke 2:22-40 or 2:22-32.