Out of the Wreck I Rise ─ A Literary Companion to Recovery

“Houses crack before they crash”—Seneca, Epistle CIII

Alcohol is killing Americans at a rate not seen in at least thirty-five years. The National Institute of Health estimates 17 million adults in the United States are alcoholics or have a serious problem with alcohol. This scourge affects not only those who drink, but family and friends, who witness the horror of alcoholism and other kinds of addiction and are called upon to support the enormous efforts of recovery. WithOut of the Wreck I Rise, Neil Steinberg and Sara Bader create a resource like no other—one that harnesses the power of literature, poetry, and creativity to forge change, deepen understanding, and even save lives.

Structured to follow the arduous, non-linear steps to sobriety, the book marshals the wisdom of centuries on topics like the importance of time, dealing with friends and family, Alcoholics Anonymous, and relapse. Each chapter begins with advice and commentary followed by a wealth of quotes to inspire and heal. The result is a mosaic of observations and encouragement that draw on writers and artists spanning thousands of years—with Seneca to David Foster Wallace, Shakespeare to Patti Smith. The ruminations of notorious drinkers like Cheever, Bukowski, and Hemingway shed light on the difficult process and remind the reader that while the literary alcoholic is often romanticized, recovery is the true path of the hero. The book also addresses the parallel difficulties of drug addiction.

This culture lover’s meditation provides support along with traditional routes to recovery including Alcoholics Anonymous, therapy, and in-patient rehabilitation programs, and will provides hours of inspiration for anyone standing down their addiction, or providing support to a struggling loved one.