Welcome back! In this episode, Shari and Rhea conclude their discussion of Housekeeping by Marilynne Robinson. They get deep into ideas of transfiguration, baptism, endings that don’t do what they want, and where the beauty is despite the great sadnesses. There is much to lament, much to rejoice over, much to wonder at in these final chapters. It also makes the following quote from Robinson’s interview with Trinity Forum all the more poignant (you can find that interview on Rhea’s post on Housekeeping):
There is a way in which a good writer can see into strange places and see beauty in places others can’t. —Marilynne Robinson
If you’re journaling along with us, here is this week’s prompt:
Journal from on high, outside yourself. Assume an imaginary position from a place above you. For example: the top of a nearby tree, as a bird flying overhead, a rooftop, mountaintop, etc. Further this prompt by writing from the p.o.v. of anything in your surroundings (an object on your desk, your pet, your mailbox, etc.). Again, focus on your five senses—especially to begin.
R&W’s next deep read is Phantastes, by George MacDonald. Below is a reading schedule:
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