82: Effing the Ineffable feat. Simon Critchley

Dec 14, 2024

Joining Abby and Patrick is Simon Critchley, the Hans Jonas Professor of Philosophy at the New School for Social Research, acclaimed for his explorations of mysticism and existentialism. In a captivating conversation, they delve into Critchley’s new book on mysticism, specifically discussing how mystical experiences transcend the self. Topics range from the eroticism in the Song of Songs to the unique narratives of mystics like Margery Kempe and Meister Eckhart. They also examine the rich interplay between mysticism, gender, and modern psychoanalytic insights.

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ADVICE

Read the Song of Songs

Read the Song of Songs without applying obvious interpretations about repressed sexuality.
Consider its indirect eroticism and how female mystics used it.

INSIGHT

Mysticism as Palimpsest

Mystical texts are palimpsests, overwritten and reinterpreted over time, creating rich layers of meaning.
This oversaturation is key to understanding mysticism, not just as a set of beliefs, but also as a tradition of interpretation.

ANECDOTE

Mystical Texts in the Classroom

Simon Critchley's students engaged deeply with mystical texts, finding them intensely personal and transformative.
This personal engagement combined with scholarly rigor made for a unique teaching experience.

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Life of the Servant

James M. Clark

Henry Suso

Your Life is Not a (Fucking) Story

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Simon Critchley

Prayer Journal

W. A. Sessions

Flannery O'Connor

Interpretations of the Song of Songs

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Marie of the Incarnation

Sermons on the Song of Songs

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Bernard of Clairvaux

Bernard of Clairvaux's 'Sermons on the Song of Songs' offer a profound and influential interpretation of this biblical text. Written in the 12th century, these sermons explore the allegorical meaning of the Song of Songs, linking the lovers' relationship to the spiritual union between Christ and the Church or between the soul and God. Bernard's interpretations are characterized by their poetic beauty and their emphasis on the mystical dimensions of faith. His work has had a lasting impact on Christian mysticism and spirituality, shaping the understanding and interpretation of the Song of Songs for centuries. The sermons' enduring appeal lies in their ability to connect the sensual language of the Song of Songs with the spiritual aspirations of the believer.

The Book of Angela of Foligno

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Angela of Foligno

Does 'Consciousness' Exist?

William James

The Book of Christine of St. Denys

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Christine of St. Denys

Meister Eckhart: Sermons and Treatises

Sermons and Treatises

Meister Eckhart

Meister Eckhart's sermons and treatises represent a pivotal moment in the history of Christian mysticism. His work, characterized by its intellectual rigor and profound spiritual insights, explores the nature of God, the soul, and the path to union with the divine. Eckhart's teachings emphasize the importance of detachment from worldly concerns and the cultivation of a deep, intuitive understanding of God. He challenged traditional theological interpretations, advocating for a more direct and experiential approach to faith. His influence on subsequent generations of mystics and theologians has been immense, solidifying his place as a major figure in the history of Western spirituality.

The mirror of simple souls

Marguerite Porete

Marguerite Porete's "The Mirror of Simple Souls" is a significant text in medieval mysticism. It explores the concept of the soul's union with God, a view that clashed with church doctrine. The book's condemnation and the author's execution highlight the risks faced by women expressing independent spiritual views. Its rediscovery in the 20th century underscores its enduring importance. The book's survival despite attempts at suppression speaks to its power and influence.

The Red Book

A Reader's Edition (Philemon)

Jung, C. G.

Civilization and its discontents

Sigmund Freud

Sigmund Freud's "Civilization and Its Discontents" delves into the inherent conflict between individual desires and societal demands. Freud explores the tension between the pleasure principle and the reality principle, arguing that civilization's restrictions on instinctual gratification lead to widespread unhappiness. He examines the role of aggression and the development of the superego in shaping human behavior. The book also touches upon the influence of religion and the search for meaning in human life. Ultimately, Freud suggests that a degree of discontent is inevitable in a civilized society.

Song of Songs

Also known as Song of Solomon

King Solomon

The Song of Songs is a unique book in the Bible, consisting of eight chapters of love poetry. It describes the courtship, marriage, and the ongoing relationship between a man and a woman, often interpreted as a symbol of divine love. The book is divided into sections that address courtship, the wedding, and various aspects of married life. It is known for its vivid and passionate language, emphasizing the beauty and goodness of marriage. Historically, it has been interpreted in several ways, including allegorical views representing God's love for Israel or Christ's love for the Church, as well as a straightforward celebration of human love within marriage[1][3][4].

The book of Margery Kempe

Margery Kempe

The Book of Margery Kempe is a medieval text that chronicles the life of Margery Kempe, an English Christian mystic. The book, written in the third person and dictated to scribes, describes her spiritual torments, visions of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary, and her numerous pilgrimages to the Holy Land, Rome, and Santiago de Compostela. It also details her struggles with societal acceptance, her public displays of emotional devotion, and her eventual return to care for her ailing husband. The text is significant for its insight into the life of a middle-class woman in the Middle Ages and its unique blend of spiritual and social commentary.

On Mysticism: The Experience of Ecstasy

Simon Critchley

In this book, Simon Critchley delves into the concept of mysticism, focusing on existential ecstasy and the experience of heightened senses and self-awareness. He examines the historical and practical aspects of mysticism, tracing its roots in Eastern and Western religions, its association with esoteric and occult knowledge, and its influence on modern thinkers like T.S. Eliot. Critchley discusses the lives of famous mystics such as Julian of Norwich and Jesus Christ, highlighting how embracing mystical experiences can enrich our lives and broaden our understanding of the divine.

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Sir Michael Howard

Revelations of Divine Love

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Julian of Norwich

Revelations of Divine Love is a classic work of Christian mysticism written by Julian of Norwich. It recounts her personal experiences of divine revelation and offers profound insights into God's love and compassion. The book explores themes of God's motherhood, the nature of sin and salvation, and the ultimate triumph of love. Julian's writing is characterized by its simplicity, clarity, and profound emotional depth. It continues to inspire and challenge readers centuries after its creation.