Words With My Father: A Bipolar Journey Through Turbulent Times - Paperback

THE DRAMATIC STORY OF A PIONEERING MAN, HIS MERCURIAL MIND AND A SOCIETY IN LIMBO.

Lowell Klessig’s posthumously-released story, infused with reflections by his son Lukas, provides an intimate window into one man’s life in flux with bipolar disorder. As the author narrates a postwar upbringing and describes the manic-depressive travails of developing his identity, he offers us a view into the turmoil of the times – and of his mind.

Through mania- and danger-filled months fighting for Civil Rights, protesting the Vietnam War and furthering the Conservation Movement, we see the purpose that sustained him. Through darkened panes, we witness the isolation and malaise of depressive winters that nearly took his life. This masterful chronicle allows us to peer into a restless and kinetic existence in one moment and a chasm of fatigue and hopelessness on the next page. 

It’s a bipolar journey that you won’t ever forget.

About the Author

LOWELL KLESSIG

Lowell Klessig led a life of action, ambition and accomplishment. He directly participated in the Civil Rights and Peace Movements. In addition, he became a celebrated conservation leader and environmental advocate in Wisconsin, the nation and around the world.

Lowell won the Wisconsin Idea Award and UW-Extension’s Teacher of the Year Award, among many other recognitions. His research and work served as the basis for several conservation laws. All along the way, he wrote, published and taught the ideas and lessons garnered from a multitude of experiences.

Lowell passed away in 2014 after a year-long battle with CJD - a rare neurodegenerative disease.

This book is his first written chronicle of the anxiety, mania and depression that shaped his shortened life.