The Thomistic Institute
Only the Lover Sings: Poetry, Mimesis, and the Christian Life | Prof. Patrick Callahan
May 1, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Patrick Callahan, Director of the Newman Institute and Assistant Professor at St. Gregory the Great Seminary, illuminates the essential role of poetry in the Christian life. He explores how poetry reflects Christ-like speech and fosters deeper contemplation. Callahan delves into the intersection of art, love, and philosophy, drawing insights from thinkers like Joseph Pieper and St. Augustine. He emphasizes the transformative power of language and the integration of poetry in liturgy, highlighting its ability to connect individuals to the divine and to community.
44:44
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Quick takeaways
- Poetry is a vital expression of faith that deepens the contemplative experience and fosters conformity to Christ through its reflection of beauty and truth.
- The concept of mimesis highlights how poetry and artistic expression facilitate moral and spiritual growth by allowing individuals to engage with divine truths.
Deep dives
The Significance of Poetry in Christian Life
Poetry is described as a significant mode of speech that resonates with the essence of Christ, represented as the eternal logos. This connection highlights the role of poetry in articulating the human experience and facilitating a contemplative life alongside philosophy and religious practices. The speaker emphasizes that poetry reflects the multifaceted nature of beauty and truth, underscoring the belief that beauty arises from diversity while God embodies unchanging perfection. This duality illustrates how poetry serves as a vital means for individuals to connect spiritually and intellectually with their faith and the divine.
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