Hermitix

Stephen Dowden, Professor of German language and literature, discusses his book on modernism and mimesis. They challenge the conventional understanding of Ulysses as the defining modernist work, explore irony and complexity in Joyce's work, and discuss the relationship between modernism and modernity. The podcast also explores Marcel Duchamp's painting 'Peace' and the frustration it invokes, delves into the journey of an artist, and discusses approaching art without limitations.

James Machin and Tim Jarvis discuss the life, work, and mythologies of Arthur Machen, exploring his impact within weird fiction, horror, and occult genres. They delve into Machen's strong opinions, his views on mysticism and the occult, and his unique writing style. The chapters also cover the influence of Machen's work on individuals, advice for getting into his work, and future projects by the Friends of Arthur Machen society.

Post-doctoral researcher Aaron French discusses weird fiction, Lovecraft, Ligotti, and magic. They explore the genre-defying nature of weird fiction and its relationship with other genres. They delve into revolutions in thought and the unconscious, as well as the connection between psychoanalysis, occultism, and weird fiction. They also discuss standout stories, the unique qualities of weird fiction, films in the genre, and Lovecraftian fiction.

Writer and occultist John Michael Greer joins the host to discuss collapse, history, consciousness, and cyclical theories of history. They delve into the works of Spengler and Toynbee, explore the concept of secular religion, debunk misconceptions about the impact of modern medicine, express skepticism towards AI as a savior, explore the relevance of cynicism in today's world, and discuss embracing life amidst decline.

Kevin Hart discusses his new book Lands of Likeness and explores themes of Christian thought and secular philosophy. The podcast also delves into the speaker's religious background and transformative experiences, the role of contemplation in Christianity, and the significance of poetry as a form of contemplation.

Bryan Counter discusses Cormac McCarthy's novel Outer Dark, exploring themes of light and darkness, Schopenhauer's aesthetic experience, agency and determinism, the blind man, active and passive nihilism, character progression, and the beauty of prose.

Associate Professor of Philosophy Sebastjan Vörös discusses the work of Francisco Varela, delving into topics such as embodied cognition, neuro phenomenology, and the concept of Unevelt. They also explore Varela's personal experiences with liver transplant and recommend starting points for understanding his work.

Occultist and writer John Michael Greer discusses 'The Tree of Spirit' book by John Gilbert, exploring tarot card origins, debunking myths, and discussing the symbolic meanings of cards like Death and the Devil. They also discuss the concept of new thought, the power of will, exploring restriction, comfort zones, and seeking a third option in life's choices.

This podcast explores Philip K Dick's novel 'VALIS' and its examination of insanity, reason, and the blurring of fiction and reality. It also delves into the connections between Gnosticism and Dick's writings, discussing concepts like the demi-urge, the division between good and evil, and transcendence through Christ. The podcast challenges the notion of reality and spirituality and examines the transformative experience 'VALIS' provides for readers.

Adrian Nathan West, translator of more than twenty books, discusses the work of Hermann Burger. They explore Burger's use of synesthesia and hypotaxis, his unconventional life and association with a cult, strange and unhinged ideas in his work, his perspective on depression, and his concept of existence and fetishes. They also discuss the challenges of understanding Burger's writing.