Dr. Martin Shaw - The Depth And Value In Myth

23 snips

Feb 7, 2022

In a captivating discussion, Dr. Martin Shaw, an acclaimed myth teacher and author, dives deep into the transformative power of storytelling and myth. He emphasizes the true essence of blessings over mere affirmations, urging a recognition of pivotal moments in life. Shaw articulates the need for humility and vulnerability as we navigate our personal journeys. He also reflects on the profound connection between nature, spirituality, and communication with the natural world, highlighting the importance of mentorship and community in exploring one’s inner depths.

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ANECDOTE

101-Day Vigil Vision

Dr. Shaw spent 101 days in a vigil in the Dartmoor wilds, culminating in a powerful vision.
He saw colors streaming from the sky, landing near him, and heard the words: "Inhabit the time and genesis of your original home."

INSIGHT

Embracing Defeat

True spiritual growth comes from grappling with and being defeated by something larger than oneself.
Successes are small and belittling; seek overwhelming experiences that demand submission.

INSIGHT

Powerlessness and Truth

Without experiencing powerlessness, men may abuse power.
Embrace uncertainty and the unknown as sources of truth in a chaotic world.

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How do I sum up this conversation? Because we could have talked for days. Dr. Shaw's work is incredibly powerful, so get ready for a very depth-oriented and intense conversation. For example, Dr. Shaw and I cover the real meaning of blessing and the importance of being defeated—not winning. The power of story and myth, comfort versus shelter, and how it all relates to how we're living now.

Martin Shaw is widely regarded as one of the most exciting teachers of the mythic imagination. Author of the award-winning Mythteller trilogy (A Branch from the Lightning Tree, Snowy Tower, Scatterlings), he founded the Oral Tradition and Mythic Life courses at Stanford University, and is director of the Westcountry School of Myth in the UK. He has introduced thousands of people to mythology, and for twenty years, Shaw has been a wilderness rites of passage guide, working with at-risk youth, those who are unwell, returning veterans as well as many women and men seeking a deeper life.

His translations of Gaelic poetry and folklore (with Tony Hoagland) have been published in Orion Magazine, Poetry International, and Poetry Magazine. Dr. Shaw's work has received top praise from the likes of Malidoma Somé, Stephen Jenkinson, Coleman Barks, Robert Densmore, and Robert Bly. His essay and conversation with Ai Weiwei on myth and migration was released by the Marciano Arts foundation.

Connect with Dr. Shaw

-Website: https://drmartinshaw.com/

-Substack, The House of Beasts & Vines: https://martinshaw.substack.com/

-Westcountry School of Myth: https://schoolofmyth.com/

-Books at Cista Mystica Press: https://cistamystica.com/

-Latest Book, Smoke Hole: https://cistamystica.com/shop/smoke-hole/

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