Malcolm Guite: Imagination and the Kingdom of God

Name: Malcolm Guite: Imagination and the Kingdom of God
Uploaded: 2026-02-04T16:34:18.000Z
Duration: 2 h 58 min 57 s

Welcome to the Lewis House Lecture

Introduction and Venue Information

The speaker welcomes attendees to the Christian Student Fellowship (CSF) building for a Lewis House lecture, noting the usual location is across the street.

Encourages attendees to visit the Lewis House after the lecture, highlighting its beautiful library, appealing to book lovers in attendance.

Acknowledges parking difficulties due to weather conditions and mentions that a large crowd is expected because of guest speaker Malcolm Gite's popularity.

Announcements and Upcoming Events

After the lecture, there will be a bookstore selling some of Malcolm's books; attendees are encouraged to act quickly as supplies may be limited.

Announces fall class schedule at Lewis House, including accredited courses in Christian thought through Asbury University. Courses offered include basic Christian doctrine and apologetics.

Mentions an application process for a two-year scholars program where students can earn scholarship money while engaging with Christian thought literature.

Additional Opportunities with Malcolm Gite

Highlights additional opportunities to hear from Malcolm Gite, including a podcast recorded earlier and his upcoming lectures at Asbury University Chapel and Anker Baptist Church.

Special Guest Introduction

Introduces Molly Woreram as the next speaker for a future lecture on March 4th, emphasizing her journey from atheism to faith.

Expresses gratitude towards sponsors Michael and Nicole Sloan, Richard and Connie Jira for making tonight’s event possible.

Introducing Malcolm Gite

Background of Malcolm Gite

Describes Malcolm as a multifaceted individual: poet, musician, academic, priest with degrees from Cambridge (BA & MA in literature), and Durham University (PhD).

Notes his ordination in the Church of England since 1991 and his extensive writing on poetry intersecting with theology.

Mentions his popularity on YouTube and shares an anecdote about receiving fan correspondence from notable figures like Night.

Imagination and the Kingdom of God

Introduction to the Speaker

Malcolm G. is introduced, humorously reflecting on a previous description by Jeremy Begby at Duke Divinity School. He mentions that Begby described him as someone who "lectures wildly" in the UK and America, setting a light-hearted tone for his talk.

The Focus on Poetic Imagination

The speaker emphasizes that he will focus on the poetic imagination, which he has explored extensively, while acknowledging other forms like moral and prophetic imagination. He aims to delve into how poetry relates to Christianity and Jesus' teachings about the kingdom of God.

Addressing Audience Concerns

Acknowledging potential discomfort with poetry among audience members, Malcolm suggests that negative experiences with English teachers may have contributed to this aversion. He expresses understanding for those who might feel overwhelmed or resistant to poetry's complexities.

Critique of Traditional Poetry Teaching

Citing poet Billy Collins, Malcolm critiques traditional approaches to teaching poetry that can be overly harsh or limiting—comparing it to "tying a poem to a chair and beating it with a hose pipe." Instead, he advocates for an exploratory approach where one engages with poems more freely and creatively.

The Essence of Poetry

Drawing from an interview with Nobel laureate Seamus Heaney, Malcolm shares insights about what makes a poem impactful: it's not just about memorization but rather how phrases from poems resonate deeply in moments of reflection or decision-making in life. He hopes his discussion will provide phrases that "feed the soul."

Exploring Shakespeare's Perspective

To understand poetic imagination better, Malcolm references Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night's Dream, particularly Duke Theseus’ speech discussing whether imaginative people can be trusted. This sets up a discussion on the nature of imagination as both potentially deceptive yet also illuminating truths through artful expression.

Understanding the Role of Imagination in Poetry

The Nature of Imagination and Reason

The speaker discusses how poetry is often expressed through a hostile witness, emphasizing that lovers and madmen possess "seething brains" that perceive more than rational thought can grasp.

The connection between madness, love, and poetry is highlighted; each perspective sees beyond reality—madmen see devils, while lovers idealize beauty.

A critical moment arises when the poet's perspective is introduced, suggesting that poets have a unique ability to envision and articulate deeper truths about existence.

The Poet's Vision

The phrase "the poet's eye in fine frenzy rolling" indicates the dynamic nature of poetic vision, which encompasses both heaven and earth.

Despite his initial dismissal of poetry, the speaker inadvertently provides a profound description of its essence: transforming abstract ideas into tangible forms with names and shapes.

Comprehension vs. Apprehension

A distinction is made between "apprehend" (to grasp partially) and "comprehend" (to understand fully), suggesting different levels of understanding in relation to poetry.

The discussion emphasizes that true comprehension may be limited by one's mental capacity; if something exceeds our understanding, we can only apprehend aspects of it.

Duality in Poetic Expression

The dual trajectory from heaven to earth and vice versa symbolizes two types of poetry: one that brings divine inspiration down to human experience and another that elevates mundane experiences towards transcendence.

This duality mirrors the earlier distinction between apprehending joy versus comprehending its source.

The Function of Imagination in Poetry

Central to poetic creation is the act of imagination "bodying forth," which allows for the transformation of abstract concepts into concrete realities within poetry.

The speaker notes that this imaginative process gives form to previously unknown ideas, illustrating how poets create meaning from nothingness.

Juxtaposition and Imagination in Poetry

The Concept of Juxtaposition

The speaker introduces the term "juxtaposition," contrasting it with the earlier jargon word they learned, emphasizing its meaning as placing things next to each other.

They highlight the juxtaposition of "imagination" and "bodies," noting that these words come from different registers and carry distinct connotations.

Imagination's Role

The speaker argues that imagination seeks substantial forms rather than whimsical ideas, aiming for something knowable and comprehensible.

They assert that imagination is essential for embodying abstract concepts into tangible forms, stating, "Imagination bodies forth the form of things unknown."

Shakespeare's Influence

The discussion references Shakespeare’s use of imaginary characters like Oberon and Titania to embody broader themes such as nature and human experience.

The phrase “gives to airy nothing a local habitation and a name” illustrates how poets create visible representations of abstract ideas.

Scientific Parallels

The speaker draws parallels between poetry and scientific discovery, explaining how new models or paradigms often begin with an initial vision before mathematical validation occurs.

A personal anecdote about Crick and Watson highlights this process; their breakthrough on DNA structure occurred after a moment of inspiration in a pub.

Contemporary Poetic Perspectives

Transitioning to contemporary poets, the speaker notes that different poets have varying approaches to blending heaven and earth in their work.

T.S. Eliot is mentioned as someone who captures moments of lucidity through diverse expressions, reflecting on his quest for articulation amidst complexity.

Understanding the Craft of Poetry

The Nature of Poetic Expression

The speaker discusses the iterative nature of poetry, emphasizing how poets often refine their expressions mid-poem to achieve clarity and connection with the reader.

A contrast is drawn between successful poetry that resonates with readers and "eliotic poetry," which can leave audiences confused due to its lack of clear imagery or understanding.

Some poets effectively transition from familiar earthly experiences to profound insights, creating vivid imagery that evokes personal memories and emotions.

Case Study: Seamus Heaney's "Digging"

The poem "Digging" by Seamus Heaney serves as a prime example, beginning with the line about a pen resting in his hand, symbolizing his struggle as a writer.

Heaney reflects on his father's laborious work digging potatoes, which captivates him and shifts the focus of the poem towards this act of digging.

The poem intricately describes various forms of digging, connecting them to familial heritage and nourishment while highlighting Heaney's own identity as a poet.

Themes in Poetry

As Heaney honors his ancestors' labor, he ultimately asserts his own path as a writer by stating he will dig with his pen instead of a spade.

This duality between physical labor (digging) and creative expression (writing) is central to understanding both the poem's meaning and Heaney’s artistic journey.

Insights on Literary Criticism

The speaker reflects on how this exploration into poetry has enriched their practice as both a poet and literary critic, allowing for deeper engagement with poetic works.

They mention George Herbert’s poem "Prayer," which contains numerous images that illustrate complex concepts succinctly within just 14 lines.

Bridging Literature and Theology

After studying literature at Cambridge alongside theology, the speaker notes an absence of dialogue between these fields in literary criticism.

They express a desire to integrate theological perspectives into literary discussions, leading to their writing project titled "Faith Hope and Poetry."

By revisiting foundational texts like Shakespeare through this lens, they aim to explore how poetic imagination connects deeply with theological themes.

Exploring the Concept of "Logos" in John's Gospel

The Connection Between Heaven and Earth

The speaker reflects on the transition from heavenly concepts to tangible expressions, referencing Shakespeare's understanding of this theme.

The prologue of John's Gospel is introduced, emphasizing its philosophical depth with phrases like "In the beginning was the word," which encapsulates the essence of creation and existence.

Understanding "Logos"

The speaker grapples with comprehending the abstract ideas presented in John's Gospel, particularly regarding "logos" as a philosophical concept that feels distant and intangible.

Verse 14 serves as a pivotal moment where abstract ideas become concrete: "the word was made flesh," highlighting the incarnation and divine glory manifested in human form.

Poetry as a Medium for Expression

Shakespeare's portrayal of poetry is likened to an account of incarnation, suggesting that creative expression allows individuals to convey their innermost thoughts and feelings.

The metaphor of poetry as a house illustrates how artists invite others into their creations, allowing for shared experiences and deeper truths to be discovered within.

Jesus' Invitation to Explore

In John's Gospel, Jesus' question about his habitation invites exploration; it symbolizes an invitation to discover spiritual truths through personal engagement.

This theme continues with Jesus’ call to his disciples: “come and see,” encouraging them (and us) to seek out deeper understanding beyond surface appearances.

Nathaniel's Encounter with Jesus

Nathaniel’s skepticism about Nazareth reflects common doubts; however, his encounter with Jesus leads him toward profound realization about identity and faith.

Jesus recognizes Nathaniel before they meet, indicating an intimate knowledge that transcends ordinary perception—this moment signifies spiritual awakening akin to Buddhist concepts of divine recognition.

Greater Revelations Await

Jesus promises Nathaniel greater things ahead, hinting at future revelations that extend beyond individual experience—this notion connects back to themes found in Shakespearean works.

The imagery of angels ascending and descending suggests ongoing communication between heaven and earth, reinforcing the interconnectedness present in both scripture and art.

Understanding the Connection Between Poetry and Theology

Nathaniel's Anticipation of Jesus' Words

The speaker imagines Nathaniel eagerly anticipating Jesus' response, believing he knows the answer related to Jacob's ladder.

Nathaniel expects Jesus to reference his ancestor Jacob, highlighting a contrast between past miracles and present experiences.

The Significance of Jacob's Ladder

The speaker interprets Jesus’ statement about angels ascending and descending as a profound declaration that He embodies Jacob’s ladder, connecting heaven and earth.

This connection emphasizes the transformative nature of divine love that transcends human understanding.

Reflections on Poetry in Theology

The speaker reflects on C.S. Lewis’s insights from "Reflections on the Psalms," particularly regarding poetry's unique role in expressing theological truths.

Lewis describes every poem as a "little incarnation," succinctly capturing what the speaker elaborates over an extended discussion.

Critique of Modern Church Discourse

The speaker critiques contemporary theology for being "discarnate," lacking empathy and failing to connect with people's real-life struggles.

There is a call for theology to recover its poetic roots, suggesting that both poetry and theology can benefit from each other’s insights.

Edwin Muir's Poetic Insights

The speaker references Edwin Muir’s poem "The Incarnate One," which critiques bad church practices through vivid imagery.

Muir contrasts abstract theological arguments with genuine awe experienced by those outside formal religious structures, emphasizing authentic engagement with faith.

Imagination as a Truth-Bearing Faculty

The discussion highlights how imagination serves as a vital faculty for truth-telling, especially within Christian contexts.

A plea is made for Christians to embrace poetry as it mirrors the incarnation—bringing forth deep truths into tangible expressions.

Balancing Reason and Imagination

The speaker clarifies that advocating for imagination does not equate to dismissing reason; rather, it seeks harmony between analytical thought and creative expression.

The Relationship Between Imagination and Reason

The Dependence on Modern Medicine and Science

The speaker expresses a reliance on modern medicine and trust in engineers, emphasizing that they are not anti-science.

They argue that opposing imagination and reason is problematic, suggesting both are essential for a complete understanding of the world.

The Need for Integration of Imagination and Reason

The speaker discusses the metaphor of children from divorced parents to illustrate how imagination and reason should be united rather than separated.

They reference the marriage of Theseus and Hippolyta as a symbol of this union, highlighting that philosophers have historically favored rationalism over imagination.

Historical Context: C.S. Lewis's Perspective

C.S. Lewis's reflections from "Surprised by Joy" reveal his struggle between poetry/myth (imagination) and rationalism (reason).

He describes his mind as divided, with poetry being seen as imaginary while rational beliefs felt grim and meaningless.

Epistemological Apartheid

The speaker introduces the concept of "epistemological apartheid," where rational thought is privileged over imaginative thinking.

This separation leads to an incomplete understanding of reality, focusing only on quantifiable aspects while neglecting deeper meanings.

C.S. Lewis's Poetry: A Reflection on Reason and Imagination

The discussion shifts to Lewis’s unpublished poems, particularly one about reason which reflects his internal conflict regarding these two ways of knowing.

The poem illustrates the tension between reason (represented by Athens' logical structures) and imagination (the fertile ground below), indicating a need for balance between them.

The Nature of Reason and Imagination

The Role of Reason in Human Integrity

The speaker reflects on a poem that articulates complex ideas about the soul and reason, emphasizing that defiling one's intellect is akin to losing one's virginity.

A clear understanding of truth is essential; claiming falsehood as truth for convenience corrupts one’s intellectual integrity.

Ignoring objective truths leads to an inability to discern between truth and falsehood, severing connections with one’s humanity.

C.S. Lewis's Journey to Faith

C.S. Lewis initially hesitated to embrace Christianity due to doubts about its rationality but later recognized it could be reasonable.

The poem contrasts the clarity of reason with the obscurity of imagination, highlighting their distinct yet complementary roles in human experience.

Imagination's Depth and Complexity

The speaker praises the poem for its vivid portrayal of how reason and imagination function together, suggesting a need for balance between them.

Imagery in the poem illustrates both clarity (reason) and warmth (imagination), indicating that both senses are vital for understanding reality.

Artistic Creation and Emotional Struggle

The description of Deita symbolizes imagination intertwined with pain and delight, reflecting the struggles artists face during creation.

A plea emerges within the poem for reconciliation between opposing forces—creation (made) and nurturing (mother)—echoing themes from Ephesians 3.

Mythology vs. Historical Truth

Discussion shifts towards myths, particularly those involving dying gods; Lewis expresses skepticism about their truthfulness despite their emotional resonance.

A conversation unfolds where Lewis acknowledges admiration for mythological narratives but questions their historical validity; his friend counters this perspective by asserting that these myths have been realized in history through Christianity.

Exploring the Intersection of Poetry and Theology

The Role of Imagination in Understanding Theology

The speaker discusses how Lewis's thoughts on Jesus can resonate with traditional church language, emphasizing a personal connection to faith.

He highlights that Lewis addresses significant epistemological issues, merging reason and imagination, allowing for a dual response to theological concepts.

The speaker suggests poetry as a means to explore theology, particularly when traditional understandings become stale or dry.

Insights from RS Thomas's Poem "The Kingdom"

The poem illustrates paradoxes within the concept of the kingdom, where societal norms are reversed; for instance, the poor man is depicted as king.

Notable poetic techniques include strategic line endings that create suspense and emphasize reversals in meaning.

Admission into this kingdom requires self-purging of desire and an honest presentation of one's needs alongside simple faith.

Personal Reflection Through Poetry

The speaker concludes his discussion by inviting questions and sharing his own poem titled "Biatitudes," which reflects on Christ’s teachings through poetic expression.

He draws parallels between Christ as both poet and subject within His own narrative, suggesting that understanding these teachings often requires imaginative engagement.

Contradictions in the Beatitudes

The speaker points out apparent contradictions in the Beatitudes, such as the meek inheriting the earth despite societal evidence to the contrary.

He emphasizes that peacemakers often face backlash but are essential for harmony amidst conflict.

Conclusion: Embracing Poetic Imagination

The speaker expresses hope that poetic imagination can help individuals grasp complex theological ideas found in scripture like the Sermon on the Mount.

He shares his poem "Biatitudes," which encapsulates themes of longing, purity of heart, and anticipation for divine comfort amidst darkness.

The Role of Imagination in Poetry and Theology

The Dichotomy of Perception in Shakespeare's Work

The discussion begins with a reference to Matthew, contrasting the idea of having a "single eye" with the ancient Greek concept where words were primarily auditory.

Shakespeare presents a character who dismisses poetry as frenzied and unproductive, while simultaneously suggesting that there is deeper value in poetic expression.

The phrase "airy nothing" illustrates how poets can give form to unknown realities, emphasizing the transformative power of imagination.

A distinction is made between what Shakespeare conveys through his characters and their own statements about imagination being potentially truth-bearing.

Cridge's differentiation between "imagination" (capital I) and "fancy" highlights the potential destructiveness of unchecked fantasy versus empathetic imagination.

The Nature of Goodness and Corruption

Augustine’s view on evil as a corruption of good suggests that all good things are susceptible to corruption, particularly religion which has profound effects when distorted.

Shakespeare’s metaphor about lies emphasizes the severity of corrupted truths compared to natural flaws.

Exploring Sensory Experience Beyond Sight

A question arises regarding the focus on sight versus other senses like hearing; this leads to an exploration of how all five senses have both physical and spiritual dimensions.

Historical perspectives from church fathers suggest that scripture should be 'tasted' spiritually, indicating a deeper engagement with sensory experiences.

Spiritual Insight Through Senses

Lewis contrasts seeing with hearing as metaphors for understanding; Job’s revelation signifies that true comprehension often requires more than just auditory information.

Personal faith journeys reflect how initial ideas evolve into clearer insights over time, often articulated as moments of realization or clarity.

The Interdependence Between Theology and Poetry

The speaker notes that God-created senses hold spiritual significance beyond their physical nature, enriching theological understanding.

An audience member expresses gratitude for making complex ideas accessible while highlighting the need for poetry within theology today.

There is an acknowledgment that while theology needs poetry, it is equally important to discuss how poetry also requires theological grounding.

Aestheticization of Life and Its Implications

The Role of Aesthetics in Modern Spirituality

Young people are increasingly finding meaning through aesthetics, which has become a substitute for traditional religion.

There is a concern about the potential idolatry associated with aesthetic experiences; however, poetry can provide a bridge to deeper understanding beyond mere aesthetics.

Faith, Reason, and Imagination

The speaker identifies as a Christian but believes discussions on faith and reason can engage individuals from various backgrounds.

The division between faith and reason is seen as problematic, stemming from poor science and philosophy rather than religion itself.

Music and Meaning

Many young people derive their sense of purpose primarily from the arts, especially music; this connection is acknowledged as valuable.

While enjoying music is important, there’s an encouragement to seek the source of beauty that lies behind these aesthetic experiences.

Romanticism and Transcendence

T.S. Eliot's perspective on romanticism suggests that even if one only encounters "spilled drops" of religion through art, those experiences are still meaningful.

The speaker reflects on how personal encounters with beauty may lead individuals toward deeper spiritual truths over time.

Personal Anecdotes: Healing Through Connection

A biblical story illustrates the transformative power of touch; Jesus heals a woman who merely touches his garment, emphasizing the importance of connection in healing.

The speaker contrasts liturgical practices with personal faith journeys, suggesting that rituals can serve as pathways to divine encounters.

Journeying Towards Faith

Despite criticisms from peers regarding liturgy being mere "churchianity," the speaker values it as an avenue to experience Christ's presence.

There’s an emphasis on patience in guiding others towards deeper spiritual engagement—moving from superficial interactions to profound connections with faith.

Exploring the Marriage of Imagination and Reason

The Challenge of Stasis in Faith

The speaker reflects on a perceived stagnation among some Christians, questioning the absence of development, growth, and exploration in their faith journey.

Acknowledges a "divorce" between imagination and reason that many have experienced, particularly relevant for those raising children.

Nurturing Imagination in Children

Emphasizes the importance of engaging with children to rekindle imagination, suggesting that reading with them can teach adults about delight and wonder.

Highlights Jesus' teaching about children belonging to the kingdom of heaven as a reminder to embrace childlike awe.

Addressing Objective Truth vs. Subjective Meaning

Discusses societal views that prioritize objective truth as measurable facts while dismissing subjective meaning as less real.

Argues against this split by asserting that one's existence (subjectivity) is inherently tied to understanding oneself (objectivity).

Modeling Imagination for Future Generations

Advocates for modeling an appreciation for imagination to children, countering societal narratives that deem it childish or irrelevant.

Encourages honoring children's imaginative insights and defending them against societal attacks on creativity.

Personal Reflections on Poetry

Responding to a question about favorite poems, the speaker mentions "O sapiencia" as a significant work reflecting heavenly wisdom.

Recites lines from "O sapiencia," emphasizing themes of thought and communication rooted in divine wisdom.

The Role of Food and Drink in Poetry

Shares experiences writing poetry about food, specifically cheese, highlighting its overlooked significance in poetic expression.

Recounts an amusing incident involving reciting a poem in a pub where patrons enthusiastically participated due to its repetitive nature.

Poem Presentation and Conclusion

Closing Remarks on the Poem

The speaker indicates that they have completed their poem, signaling a transition towards concluding the session.

Acknowledgment of Malcolm's contribution is made, suggesting he played a significant role in the event or presentation.

The audience is encouraged to applaud Malcolm, indicating appreciation for his work or performance.

The phrase "drawing to the end of our time" suggests that this segment was part of a larger event or discussion.

Overall, there is a sense of closure and gratitude expressed towards participants and contributors at this moment.