My Secret Book

Deeply troubled by his struggle - and failure - to achieve spiritual perfection, Petrarch sought catharsis in the writing of a 'secret book'.

Only here could he pour out his innermost thoughts, frustrations and desires.

Written in the form of a dialogue between himself and St Augustine, My Secret Book wrestles with the universal themes of suffering, desire, fear and joy.

The result is a precious insight into Petrarch's life, world and writing, and a remarkable early example of self-revelation and autobiography.