

Mythic Mind
Andrew Snyder
Mythic Mind pursues wisdom on the pathways between primary and secondary worlds. Tolkien, Lewis, and adjacent material tend to take a leading role.To support my work and gain access to exclusive and early content, voting power, and more, head over to https://www.patreon.com/mythicmindBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 11, 2025 • 44min
104 - Introduction to The Screwtape Letters
Discover the inspiration behind C.S. Lewis's The Screwtape Letters and its fascinating connections to his other works. The discussion highlights Lewis's views on temptation, pride, and the seductive power of rhetoric. Learn about his initial struggles to depict heavenly voices and the impact of historical events, like Hitler's speeches, on his writing. The podcast also touches on the intriguing dynamics between devils and their desire to consume souls, alongside a look at the lesser-known manuscript fragments and their significance.

18 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 1h 21min
103 - Perelandra
Explore the intricate philosophical themes in C.S. Lewis's Perelandra, focusing on evolution, existence, and morality. Dive into the protagonist's battle against fear and identity in a perilous reality. Discover the captivating interplay between the natural and supernatural realms, alongside a cosmic journey emphasizing responsibility and divine purpose. Reflect on contrasting realities of Malacandra and Perilandra, incorporating masculinity and femininity. Conclude with insights on love, beauty, and anxiety, unraveling deeper spiritual connections and personal growth.

Jul 28, 2025 • 55min
102 - Augustine's Confessions, Books 7-8
In this episode of our free book club on Augustine's Confessions, we discuss Books 7-8.Become a patron and/or enroll in a course at patreon.com/mythicmind.Plato, Stoicism, and Till We Have Faces begins at the beginning of August!Watch the video of this episode here: https://youtu.be/fPU7aiJOn3kListen to all THREE Mythic Mind podcasts:Mythic MindMythic Mind GamesMythic Mind Movies & ShowsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.

8 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 22min
101 - Introduction to Perelandra
Dive into C.S. Lewis's 'Perelandra' as it unravels themes of desire and fulfillment. Discover the intertwining of love and virtue, examining how gender dynamics play out in a cosmic setting. Explore rich symbolism through Mars and Venus, highlighting the quest for true beauty amidst illusions. Delve into the deeper meanings of Paralandra while anticipating future philosophical discussions. Plus, get a sneak peek at upcoming content, including gaming and Star Wars, alongside exciting Patreon perks!

Jul 15, 2025 • 1h 21min
100 - The Stories that Enchant Us
For our 100th episode, author and teacher Aaron Bair leads us in a discussion of the stories that enchanted us in our youth and continue to shape our imagination.Be sure to check out Aaron's book, A Joyful Outpost: Exploring the Household Economy of the Beavers from The Lion, the Witch and the WardrobeBecome a patron and/or enroll in a course at patreon.com/mythicmind.Watch the video of this episode here: https://youtu.be/RUSCV-MzO5IListen to all THREE Mythic Mind podcasts:Mythic MindMythic Mind GamesMythic Mind Movies & ShowsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.

17 snips
Jul 7, 2025 • 1h 34min
99 - Out of the Silent Planet
Dive into the fascinating themes of 'Out of the Silent Planet,' connecting C.S. Lewis's work to modern issues and medieval cosmology. Explore the hierarchy of existence, from Hell to ethereal realms, emphasizing the distance from divine goodness. Discover the celestial influences woven into ancient mythology, examining how planets impart human virtues. Engage with metaphysical shifts in the Ransom trilogy and marvel at the collaboration between Lewis and Tolkien. The journey encourages community interaction, paving the way for more literary discussions.

Jul 1, 2025 • 6min
Bonus: Tolkien's Mad Hobby that Spawned Middle-earth
I am reviving my Substack series on Tolkien's letters, which I am also recording for Tier 2+ patrons at https://www.patreon.com/c/mythicmind.In this freebie episode, I discuss a 1916 letter to Edith Bratt in which Tolkien mentions his "mad hobby" that would one day lead to the creation of Middle-earth. You can find my Substack at https://andrewnsnyder.substack.comWatch the video for this episode and subscribe to my YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7JIi6gSh-5YWatch Tolkien write and speak a bit of Elvish here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JKyaKmDDRdoBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.

Jun 30, 2025 • 55min
98 - Augustine's Confessions, Books 5-6
In this episode of our free book club on Augustine's Confessions, we discuss Books 5-6.Subscribe to my Substack at https://andrewnsnyder.substack.com/Become a patron and/or enroll in a course at patreon.com/mythicmind.Watch the video of this conversation here: https://youtu.be/iAWQCqZGh4IBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/mythic-mind--5808321/support.

Jun 24, 2025 • 26min
97 - Introduction to Out of the Silent Planet
Delve into the intriguing world of C.S. Lewis's 'Out of the Silent Planet' and its philosophical storytelling. Discover secondary texts that enhance understanding of the Ransom series and their insights into medieval cosmology. Explore the protagonist's cosmic journey, drawing parallels to Dante's Divine Comedy. Engage with deep themes like the myth of Cupid and Psyche, and how they intertwine with vast philosophical ideas. Plus, there's an exciting eight-week study program to deepen your exploration!

Jun 17, 2025 • 1h 16min
96 - Its All in Plato: An Introduction to C.S. Lewis
Delve into the intersection of C.S. Lewis's philosophy and fiction. Explore how Plato's ideals influence Lewis's thought, uncovering the debates between being and becoming. Discover Heraclitus’s concept of change versus Parmenides’ belief in stability. Snyder highlights the allegorical journey from the shadows of the cave to the realm of forms, pairing it with medieval cosmology. Each planet embodies unique virtues, revealing deeper insights into human nature. Prepare for a rich interplay of philosophy as it shapes literature!


