They’re coming thick and fast now. Yesterday’s student presentation in our Donne seminar focused on the tradition of erotic theology as it is manifested in Donne’s work, especially his sacred poetry. Holy Sonnet 14 (“Batter my heart, three-personed God”) occupied a great deal of our attention, but Holy Sonnet 18 (“Show me thy spouse, dear Christ”) also had its provocations, some of them even deeper than those occasioned by Holy Sonnet 14.
Mulling over the presentation, discussion, and poem on the way to work today, I found some ideas emerging. I was inspired to do my first first-thing-in-the-morning podcast. (For the curious, I was aided by the fact I had brought my new Snowball USB microphone into the office for use later in the day on another project. I used that mike for yesterday’s podcast as well. Cardioid pattern, -10db pad.) And as is often the case, I had what I think is my best idea just as I was getting ready to commit to a reading. The thought of hanging on the morrow concentrates the mind wonderfully, Sam Johnson observed; I’d say that the thought of podcasting in a few moments also focuses the mind. At least it did mine.
Have patience. My commentary eventually arrives at the topic for consideration: how to scale transformative intimacy. A question all religions must confront. And a question all educators must confront as well.
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (4.1MB)
I showed this Donnery to our seminar, Gardner, playing “Extasie” as a sample. Audience was impressed. Bravo!
Hey Gardner,
I loved the recording; the emphasis on ‘Batter’ prepares one better for the ‘break, blow, burn’ spondees I think. Of course, I could listen to your voice all day, as you already know.
I saw in the paper yesterday, though, that the Jesuits have started podcasting sermons, saint’s lives, etc. What has God wrought?
Terry
Thanks to both of you for the kind words, which are very much appreciated.
As for those wacky Jesuits, Ter, you should check out the podcast of the “Catholic Insider.” I can’t remember whether that priest is a Jesuit or not, but Adam Curry praises the show, so you know it must be good. 🙂