Based on a series of talks given by Ch gyam Trungpa during the first session of what was to become Naropa University, Cynicism and Magic introduces key Tibetan Buddhist concepts, including karma, the structure of ego, the paramitas, and the bodhisattva. Employing a unique and intimate teaching style, Trungpa Rinpoche presents these concepts in a larger framework of questions we all have: What is authentic spirituality? Can I find enlightenment and freedom? How should I approach life, death, suffering, and boredom? How can I develop some discipline, patience, and sanity?

Whether you are new to Tibetan Buddhism or returning to the fundamentals of your practice, this book will guide you toward experiencing a living dharma both contemporary and timeless, both Eastern and Western, both personal and universal.