Battered Soles

Paul Nicholas Mason
Cowley Publications (2007)
ISBN 1561012882
Reviewed by Patti Yackulic for Reader Views (1/07)

At some point in most of our lives, we experience an imperative need to comprehend the impact that our spiritual beliefs have on virtually every aspect of our existence; hence, we embark on a pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. Some of us seek explanations through the biblical study and fellowship offered by religious institutions, while some of us desire to define our sense of spirituality on a personal level. Whether we prefer to exercise our beliefs through public worship or through private prayers, some of us will opt to seek meaning through pilgrimages. “Battered Soles”, Paul Mason’s account of his fictional journey along the Lakefield Pilgrimage, addresses Mason’s curiosity concerning spiritual revelations and healings attained through pilgrimages. Without a doubt, the skillfully scripted novel will appeal to readers with eclectic tastes in literature for Mason’s profound messages are delivered through employment of unique characters in an unusual tale.

A chance encounter with a mature woman in a bookstore followed by discussions with a former girlfriend and the Anglican minister in Lakefield piqued Mason’s (Mason as the main character in the novel) interest in the Lakefield Pilgrimage. Previously, Mason identified the concept of pilgrimages with the Catholic faith; thus, his fascination with this particular pilgrimage magnified as he ascertained that this excursion integrated Hindu overtones with the Lakefield Anglican church. The concept of this non-denominational pilgrimage sufficiently intrigues Mason to reserve a 2003 July weekend for the singular purpose of exploring various shrines and altars along the twenty kilometer jaunt from Peterborough to Lakefield. As his designated date nears, Mason’s enthusiasm escalates; hence, as the morning of the pilgrimage dawns, Mason’s ripe for the experience. His senses heightened in order to absorb every minute detail do not fail him, nor does his aspiration to enjoy his fellow pilgrims as he immediately adopts an unlikely companion for the journey. In “Battered Soles,” Mason’s adventure unfolds with his greeting each shrine and fellow pilgrim with a thirst for knowledge and comprehension. With the weekend drawing to a close, Mason is still endeavoring to make sense of the puzzle pieces. Is an epiphany in order for Mason, and, if that be the case, with what wisdom will Mason be blessed?

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