The Language Of The Heart

Bill W’s Grapevine Writings

Bill W. was the Grapevine’s most prolific contributor, writing more than 150 articles, from his first in June 1944 to his last in December 1970.

An enthusiastic advocate, he also served for many years as a consulting editor of Grapevine, which started as an eight-page local newsletter and became the principal journal of the Fellowship.

In The Language of the Heart: Bill W.’s Grapevine Writings,  readers will find Bill’s initial inspirations for what became the Twelve Traditions, his battles with chronic depression and spiritual pride, memories of an all-night drinking spree, and a vivid description of how he came to organize the Twelve Steps (there were six in the first draft).

For anyone in recovery from alcoholism or addiction, this uplifting and poignant collection provides a view into the early days of Alcoholics Anonymous as well as deep insights on emotional sobriety and personal struggle.