The Living Church Podcast Marilynne Robinson and Rowan Williams on Jack - Part 2
Oct 8, 2020
Join former Archbishop Rowan Williams as he interviews Pulitzer Prize winner Marilynne Robinson about her latest novel, Jack. They dive into the rising contemporary interest in the soul, connecting it to a kinder vision of God. Their discussion explores profound themes such as the image of God, human flaws, and Jack's moral dilemmas. Marilynne shares insights on cemetery imagery and its impact on characters, while Rowan reflects on Jack's integrity and the challenges of love amid societal harm. A captivating conversation on faith, art, and humanity!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Rituals Express Unspoken Respect
- Rowan Williams recalls villagers walking with funeral processions as a ritual of respect that expressed what words could not.
- He contrasts that with Dylan Thomas's farmer who left offerings for fairies, valuing ritual and reverence.
Soul-Interest Shapes Theology
- Marilynne Robinson notes renewed public interest in the concept of the soul and its ethical implications.
- She argues that experiential love for the soul would create a kinder, more accurate view of God.
Image Of God As Relational Awe
- Rowan Williams reframes the image of God as our awe and hesitation before another person rather than a God-like fragment inside us.
- He suggests mutual learning: reverence toward people teaches reverence toward God and vice versa.
