Joseph Bottum, an author and poet known for his insightful literary works, discusses holiday themes in his book 'Frankincense, Gold, and Myrrh.' He explores the intersection of the sacred and mundane, revealing how Christmas traditions can transform our everyday lives. The conversation covers the creative process of storytelling, quirky dialects, and the complex relationship between depression and the holiday spirit. Bottum also reflects on the beauty of nature and the joy of giving, highlighting the richness of Christmas experiences.
Joseph Bottum's use of 'christomathy' in his book title highlights a desire to connect with esteemed literary traditions and audiences.
The podcast explores how crime infused with humor in Christmas stories invites a rethinking of traditional holiday narratives, emphasizing redemption.
Deep dives
The Meaning of 'Christomathy'
The term 'christomathy' is used in the title of Jody Bottom's book, which refers to a collection of selected works, and its inclusion showcases a unique literary choice. Inspired by journalist H.L. Mencken's usage, the term suggests a tradition of elevated writing. Bottom's choice to lead with this word indicates his aim to evoke a sense of significant literary heritage while appealing to a thoughtful audience. The deliberate decision underscores the author's desire to be seen as a contributor to a lineage of esteemed writing.
Christmas Stories with a Twist
The book features three short Christmas stories, all infused with crime, yet told through a lens of humor and warmth. The first story, 'Wise Guy', revolves around a lovable criminal and emphasizes a comedic portrayal of crime during the holiday season. Adding complexity, Bottom admits that while the characters engage in illegal activities, there is an undercurrent of redemption, as their actions subtly reflect on their humanity. This blending of crime with holiday spirit invites readers to rethink traditional narratives associated with Christmas.
The Significance of Place
Bottom's personal connection to South Dakota plays a crucial role in his writing, especially in the essays that explore the winter landscape. He reflects on the stark beauty of the South Dakota prairie and how it influences his understanding of the world. In the essay 'Dakota Christmas', he illustrates a poignant family anecdote about why his ancestors chose their home location, emphasizing the intrinsic relationship between people and place. This sense of belonging to the land adds depth and authenticity to his reflections on the Christmas season.
Christmas as a Portal to the Divine
The episodes and essays in Bottom's book explore the theme of Christmas as a 'thin place' where the sacred intersects with the ordinary. He describes how the holiday offers a glimpse into a world filled with grace and deeper meaning amidst the mundane. Through vivid imagery and anecdotal reflections, he argues that the spirit of Christmas allows individuals to connect with the transcendent and find beauty in the familiar. This exploration provides a contemplative take on the holiday, encouraging readers to embrace the profound significance that Christmas can bring.
Ricochet presents a special Yuletide episode featuring Joseph Bottum, author of Frankincense, Gold, and Myrrh: A Christmas Chrestomathy. In under an hour, he and Peter cover crammed cities and the rural expanse, crime and charity, the written word and the reader's mind—all with thoughts on the Christmas spirit in a contemporary setting.
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