With the outbreak of the Second World War, Gurdjieff's American and English students were unable to return to Nazi occupied Paris, nevertheless, Gurdjieff continued to teach despite difficult and dangerous wartime conditions. In 1938, Jeanne de Salzmann introduced her French work group to him, and with this nucleus, Gurdjieff held regular meetings at his Paris flat throughout the occupation.

In question and answer format, Gurdjieff answers his students' questions on practical work in daily life and gives specific advice, guidance, and exercises. Among those present in Gurdjieff's company at this time were Rene Daumal, Luc Dietrich, Jeanne de Salzmann, Tcheslaw Tchekhovich, Henri Tracol and Rene Zuber.

Thirty-three meetings held at 6, rue des Colonels Renard, Paris
Second edition with new material
Complete and unexpurgated