Discoveries: Essays in Literary Criticism cover art

Discoveries: Essays in Literary Criticism

Discoveries: Essays in Literary Criticism

Written by: John Middleton Murry
Listen for free

Introductory Note: I have called these essays and lectures by a title that some people may think presumptuous: first, because it is the title of a book by Ben Jonson, and second, because it could be interpreted as meaning that I think there is something final in the results of these explorations of mine. For the first, I believe the fine ghost of Ben Jonson will forgive me. For the second, I do not believe there is anything final in criticism, But I wanted my title to contain a suggestion of the curious elation which criticism sometimes brings to me. " To me," I insist, because I subscribe wholeheartedly to the famous dictum of Anatole France that criticism is the adventures of a man's soul among books and more criticism appears to me to be an intensely personal affair. Every honest critic and by an honest critic I mean a man who builds his schemes and classifications solely on the basis of his own reactions makes a great cross-section of the universe of literature in accordance with his temperament. What he is and believes is more surely reflected in his criticism than in his direct professions of faith. The more he can lose himself in the object, the more himself he is. And the excitement of losing oneself in exploration, the elation of being possessed by the very process of discovery, is the most precious thing I have found in criticism. (Summary by author)Copyright Literary Fiction Genre Art Spirituality
Episodes
  • Universal Religion Bahaism - Its Rise and Social Import-Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney

    Universal Religion Bahaism - Its Rise and Social Import-Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney
    Oct 10 2026
    Universal Religion Bahaism by Hippolyte Dreyfus-Barney explores the emergence and societal significance of the Bahá'í faith, emphasizing its principles of unity and inclusiveness. The book delves into the rise of this global religion and its potential to foster social harmony and understanding among diverse cultures. As the world grapples with division and conflict, the themes presented in this work remain profoundly relevant, offering insights into the importance of interfaith dialogue and the pursuit of a universal truth. Dreyfus-Barney's examination of Bahaism serves as a timeless reminder of the power of belief systems to shape societies and promote peace among humanity.

    This episode includes AI-generated content.
    Show More Show Less
    3 hrs and 1 min
  • Defense of Poesy-Sir Philip Sidney

    Defense of Poesy-Sir Philip Sidney
    Sep 12 2026
    "Defense of Poesy" by Sir Philip Sidney is a seminal work that articulates the value and purpose of poetry in society. Sidney defends the art of poetry against its critics, asserting its ability to inspire virtue and elevate the human spirit. This timeless treatise highlights the transformative power of literature, making it relevant today as we navigate a world inundated with information and distractions. The themes of creativity, moral responsibility, and the pursuit of truth resonate deeply in contemporary discourse, reminding us of the enduring significance of artistic expression in shaping our understanding of the world.
    Show More Show Less
    2 hrs and 11 mins
  • Sermons for all the Sundays in the year (Sermons XXVI - XLIII)-St. Alphonsus Liguori

    Sermons for all the Sundays in the year (Sermons XXVI - XLIII)-St. Alphonsus Liguori
    Sep 7 2026
    Introductory Note: I have called these essays and lectures by a title that some people may think presumptuous: first, because it is the title of a book by Ben Jonson, and second, because it could be interpreted as meaning that I think there is something final in the results of these explorations of mine. For the first, I believe the fine ghost of Ben Jonson will forgive me. For the second, I do not believe there is anything final in criticism, But I wanted my title to contain a suggestion of the curious elation which criticism sometimes brings to me. " To me," I insist, because I subscribe wholeheartedly to the famous dictum of Anatole France that criticism is the adventures of a man's soul among books and more criticism appears to me to be an intensely personal affair. Every honest critic and by an honest critic I mean a man who builds his schemes and classifications solely on the basis of his own reactions makes a great cross-section of the universe of literature in accordance with his temperament. What he is and believes is more surely reflected in his criticism than in his direct professions of faith. The more he can lose himself in the object, the more himself he is. And the excitement of losing oneself in exploration, the elation of being possessed by the very process of discovery, is the most precious thing I have found in criticism. (Summary by author)
    Show More Show Less
    5 hrs and 29 mins
adbl_web_anon_alc_button_suppression_t1
No reviews yet