Guy Stagg

Guy Stagg, an award-winning British writer known for his explorations of travel and mental health, delves into the themes of solitude and retreat. He discusses his experiences within religious communities and how they influence creativity. Stagg reflects on the complex interplay of solitude and community, drawing from thinkers like Wittgenstein and Weil. The conversation highlights the transformative power of retreat, not as mere leisure but essential for self-discovery. He emphasizes the importance of silence and companionship in navigating the paradox of isolation.

Guy Stagg, a writer who embarked on a grueling pilgrimage to Jerusalem, shares his thrilling journey through perilous terrains, including a near-drowning incident in a Swiss river. He reflects on how this adventure transformed into a spiritual pilgrimage despite his atheism. Harry Mount, editor of The Oldie, joins to discuss his fascination with church architecture, revealing how his agnostic perspective still draws him to sacred spaces. They explore the emotional resonance of rituals and the complex relationship between spirituality and skepticism.