Unbelievable? The World Isn’t Disenchanted - We Are | Malcolm Guite
Jan 13, 2026
Malcolm Guite, a poet, Anglican priest, and academic, dives into the importance of imagination and poetry in faith. He reflects on the influences of Augustine, Coleridge, and C.S. Lewis, advocating for a balance between reason and imagination. Guite argues against modern disenchantment, suggesting we should 'un-disenchant' ourselves. He shares insights on his upcoming epic Arthurian retelling and emphasizes the need for beauty and belonging in a world often fixated on utilitarianism. His thoughts challenge conventional perceptions of truth and creativity.
01:18:55
Research Walks At Arthurian Sites
- Guite and illustrator Stephen Crotts visited Arthurian sites like Glastonbury and Tintagel to sketch and inspire the poetic retelling.
- Their fieldwork will become a documentary accompanying the new Arthurian volumes.
Fuel Your Creativity Theologically
- Kindle the imagination for Christ by grounding creative work theologically and practicing imaginative truth-bearing arts.
- Guite recommends creatives read both deep theological and literary traditions to nourish faith-filled imagination.
Making Scholarship Accessible
- Guite turned an academic monograph into a shorter book, Lifting the Veil, aimed at creatives, following colleagues who produced accessible versions of big works.
- He modeled this on Diana Glyer and Michael Ward's approach of creating practical, readable editions.
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Intro
00:00 • 1min
Guite's current projects and Arthurian epic
01:23 • 3min
Mission: Kindle imagination for Christ
04:36 • 5min
Making academic ideas accessible
10:01 • 2min
C.S. Lewis's layered influence
12:24 • 2min
Coleridge, Augustine and rejecting chronological snobbery
14:49 • 4min
Reason and imagination in Lewis's thought
19:16 • 2min
Lewis's poem 'Reason' and the reconciliation theme
21:22 • 10min
Ad break
31:33 • 31sec
McGilchrist and the hemispheric divide
32:04 • 2min
Ad break
34:01 • 30sec
Consequences of divorcing reason from imagination
34:31 • 7min
Jesus's parables: purpose and depth
41:12 • 7min
Metaphor, scripture and literal truth
47:50 • 5min
Incarnation as poet-in-the-world metaphor
52:46 • 3min
Metaphor doesn't undermine resurrection's historicity
55:52 • 8min
Campus chaplaincy: students' changing questions
01:03:32 • 8min
Belonging first, then belief and behavior
01:11:50 • 4min
Recent and forthcoming books
01:15:46 • 6min
Outro
01:21:45 • 30sec
#101
• Mentioned in 169 episodes
Paradise Lost
John Milton
Published in 1667, 'Paradise Lost' is an epic poem in blank verse that follows the biblical story of the Fall of Man. The poem begins in medias res, detailing the descent of Satan and his followers into Hell after their rebellion against God. It explores two main narrative arcs: one focusing on Satan's actions and the other on Adam and Eve's story in the Garden of Eden.
The poem delves into themes such as free will, obedience, revenge, and pride, and it portrays the complex characters of Satan, Adam, and Eve. Milton's work is known for its rich language, classical structure, and profound theological and philosophical insights.
#781
• Mentioned in 44 episodes
The Problem of Pain
C.S. Lewis
In 'The Problem of Pain', C.S.
Lewis addresses the age-old question of how a good and all-powerful God can permit pain and suffering.
Lewis argues that human suffering is a consequence of the existence of evil and free will, and that God uses suffering as a tool to draw us nearer to Him. He categorizes pain as both physical and emotional, serving as a warning signal that alerts us to potential harm and compels us to make necessary changes.
Lewis also discusses the Fall of Man and how it led to chaos and disaster, emphasizing that God's goodness is not negated by suffering but rather evidenced through His merciful intervention.
The book concludes by reassuring that God's wisdom is infinitely superior to ours and that pain eventually leads us back to a loving relationship with our Creator.
#26375
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
The Company I Keep
My Life in Beauty
Leonard Lauder
In *The Company I Keep: My Life in Beauty*, Leonard A. Lauder shares business and life lessons learned while transforming his mother's small business into a global prestige beauty company.
The book offers insights into the growth of the beauty industry and Lauder's experiences navigating fierce competition and economic challenges.
#13629
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
Bandersnatch
SA McNally
Bandersnatch, in the context of this podcast, refers to a book that explores the history and interactions of the Inklings, a group of writers associated with the University of Oxford, England.
This group included notable authors such as C.S. Lewis, J.R. R.
Tolkien, and Charles Williams.
The book likely delves into the dynamic relationships between these authors, examining how their shared interests in literature, mythology, and theology influenced their individual works.
The Inklings are known for their collaborative spirit, often reading and critiquing each other's manuscripts.
The book 'Bandersnatch' is a resource for those interested in the Inklings' profound impact on modern literature and fantasy.
#1168
• Mentioned in 33 episodes
Surprised by Joy
C.S. Lewis
#36
• Mentioned in 285 episodes
Mere Christianity
C.S. Lewis
In 'Mere Christianity', C.S.
Lewis argues for the existence of God and defends Christian theology.
The book is divided into four parts: the first argues for the existence of God based on the 'law of human nature'; the second defends Christian theology, including the 'Liar, lunatic, or Lord' trilemma regarding Jesus Christ; the third explores Christian ethics, including the cardinal and theological virtues; and the fourth discusses the Christian conception of God, particularly the Holy Trinity.
Lewis also addresses topics such as free will, morality, sexual ethics, and the institution of marriage.
The book is known for its clear and logical presentation of Christian apologetics and has been praised for its straightforward and humorous writing style.
#14099
• Mentioned in 4 episodes
Fantasties
George MacDonald
"Phantastes" by George MacDonald is a Victorian-era fairy tale that follows Anodos, a young man who journeys into a mystical realm filled with allegorical landscapes and encounters.
The story explores themes of self-discovery, spiritual awakening, and the battle between good and evil.
Anodos undergoes a series of transformative experiences that challenge his perceptions and force him to confront his inner demons.
MacDonald's rich symbolism and dreamlike prose create a landscape where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur.
Through Anodos's journey, the novel explores the importance of embracing beauty, confronting darkness, and seeking a deeper understanding of oneself and the world.
#91
• Mentioned in 187 episodes
Dominion
The Power of Man, the Suffering of Animals, and the Call to Mercy
Matthew Scully
In 'Dominion,' Matthew Scully presents a comprehensive and eloquent case against the mistreatment of animals.
The book delves into various aspects of animal suffering, including factory farming, hunting, whaling, and laboratory experiments.
Scully challenges the notion that humans have unlimited dominion over animals, as suggested by biblical interpretations, and argues for a moral and compassionate approach to animal treatment.
He draws on both religious and scientific perspectives to make his case, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the recognition of animal consciousness and suffering.
The book is a call to action for reform and a plea for human benevolence and mercy towards animals.
#32925
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
Spirits in Bondage
C.S. Lewis
C. S.
Lewis's "Spirits in Bondage" is a collection of poems written during his early years as an atheist.
The poems reflect his struggles with faith, his experiences during World War I, and his exploration of philosophical and spiritual questions.
The collection is a significant part of Lewis's literary development, showcasing his poetic talent and his intellectual journey.
The poems offer a glimpse into the mind of a young man grappling with profound questions of meaning and purpose.
The collection's exploration of doubt and the search for truth provides a valuable context for understanding Lewis's later works.
#117
• Mentioned in 160 episodes
Confessions
Augustine
Written in Latin between AD 397 and 400, 'Confessions' is a blend of autobiography, philosophy, theology, and critical exegesis of the Christian Bible.
The first nine books are autobiographical, tracing Augustine's life from his birth to his conversion to Catholicism.
He recounts his sinful youth, his involvement with Manicheism and Neoplatonism, and his eventual conversion in a Milanese garden.
The last four books focus on philosophical and theological issues, including memory, time, eternity, and the interpretation of the Book of Genesis.
The work is structured as a series of prayers to God, reflecting Augustine's journey of redemption and his understanding of God's grace and providence.
#1734
• Mentioned in 25 episodes
Miracles
C.S. Lewis
In 'Miracles', C.S.
Lewis argues that miracles are not statistically anomalous events but rather 'an interference with Nature by supernatural power'.
He challenges rationalists and naturalists by presenting a case for the possibility of miracles, defining them as events that do not break the laws of nature but rather operate outside of them.
Lewis does not attempt to prove the historical accuracy of Christian miracles but instead lays a philosophical foundation for understanding and accepting the possibility of miracles.
The book is a significant work in Christian apologetics, using lucid exposition and illuminating metaphors to make its case.
#5703
• Mentioned in 9 episodes
Planet narnia
Michael Ward
Michael Ward's "Planet Narnia" explores the allegorical structure of C.S.
Lewis's Chronicles of Narnia, arguing that the series reflects the imagery of the seven heavens.
The book delves into the literary and theological depth of Narnia, revealing its profound Christian symbolism.
Ward meticulously examines each book in the series, demonstrating how Lewis subtly incorporated theological concepts and celestial imagery.
This analysis challenges the perception of Narnia as mere children's literature, showcasing its rich intellectual and spiritual significance.
The book is a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Lewis's masterpiece.
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Faith, Hope and Poetry
Malcolm Guite
Faith, Hope, and Poetry is a collection of essays that explore the intersection of theology and art.
This collection brings together some of his finest essays, offering profound insights into the spiritual dimensions of literature.
Through these essays, Malcolm explores the works of various poets, theologians, and artists, revealing the hidden depths of meaning and inspiration within their creations.
He delves into the power of language, imagery, and narrative to convey the essence of faith and hope, inviting readers to contemplate the profound connections between the realms of the sacred and the aesthetic.
Faith, Hope, and Poetry invites readers to embark on a journey of discovery, unveiling the hidden dimensions of faith, hope, and beauty that lie waiting to be discovered.
#9951
• Mentioned in 5 episodes
On the Trinity
Augustine of Hippo
Augustine's "On the Trinity" is a profound exploration of the Christian doctrine of the Trinity, one of the most complex and debated concepts in Christian theology.
Written in Latin, it delves into the nature of God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, examining the relationship between these three persons within the one divine being.
Augustine's work is characterized by its philosophical depth and theological insight, offering a nuanced understanding of the Trinity's mysteries.
It has had a lasting impact on Christian thought, shaping theological discussions for centuries.
The book's enduring relevance lies in its exploration of the relationship between faith and reason.
#29211
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
De Doctrina Christiana
St. Augustine
Augustine's De Doctrina Christiana is a foundational text on Christian doctrine, offering insights into the interpretation of Scripture and the nature of Christian teaching.
#378
• Mentioned in 76 episodes
The Matter with Things
Our Brains, Our Delusions, and the Unmaking of the World
Iain Mcgilchrist
In 'The Matter with Things', Iain McGilchrist delves into the neuroscience, epistemology, and metaphysics of the brain's hemispheres and their impact on human perception and understanding.
The book is divided into two volumes: 'The Ways to Truth' and 'What Then is True?
'.
McGilchrist argues that the left hemisphere's dominance has led to a skewed perception of the world, neglecting the vital role of the right hemisphere in integrating science, reason, intuition, and imagination.
He explores topics such as attention, perception, judgement, and the nature of reality, including concepts like time, space, consciousness, and the sacred.
The book is a call to re-enchant the world and ourselves by recognizing the deeper, more holistic understanding provided by the right hemisphere.
#30958
• Mentioned in 2 episodes
Lifting the Veil
Malcolm Guite
#110
• Mentioned in 164 episodes
The master and his emissary
The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World
Iain McGilchrist
This book argues that the division of the brain into two hemispheres is essential to human existence, allowing for two incompatible versions of the world.
The left hemisphere is detail-oriented, prefers mechanisms to living things, and is inclined to self-interest, while the right hemisphere has greater breadth, flexibility, and generosity.
McGilchrist takes the reader on a journey through the history of Western culture, illustrating the tension between these two worlds as revealed in the thought and belief of thinkers and artists from ancient to modern times.
He argues that the increasing dominance of the left hemisphere in today’s world has potentially disastrous consequences.
#301
• Mentioned in 87 episodes
City of God
Augustine of Hippo
Written between 413-426 CE, 'The City of God' is a response to pagan claims that the sack of Rome by barbarians was a consequence of the abolition of pagan worship by Christian emperors.
Augustine argues that Christianity saved the city from complete destruction and that Rome’s fall was due to internal moral decay.
The book divides humanity into two metaphorical cities: the City of God, characterized by devotion to God, and the City of Man, characterized by self-love.
It also outlines Augustine’s theological interpretation of human history, from the Creation to the Second Coming of Christ, and critiques paganism and pagan philosophy while presenting the true history of the City of God.
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The Narnia code
Michael Ward
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C.S. Lewis Poems
C.S. Lewis
#61859
Wardrobes and Rings
Simon Horobin
Malcolm Guite
Julia Golding
Malcolm Guite joins Luke Martin for a wide-ranging Unbelievable: The Interview conversation on poetry, faith, and the power of imagination. Known as a poet, priest, and academic (and former chaplain of Girton College, Cambridge), Guite reflects on the writers who shaped him from Augustine to Coleridge, and especially C.S. Lewis and Tolkien. Why does imagination matter for truth, not just feelings? And what happens to a culture when “reason” becomes narrow, utilitarian, and disenchanted? Guite engages the modern hunger for beauty, tradition, and meaning, arguing we don’t need to “re-enchant” the world so much as un-disenchant ourselves. He also shares what he’s writing next: an epic poetic retelling of the Arthurian cycle Galahad and the Grail: Merlin’s Isle (Volume 1), out in March 2026 - a retelling restoring the Christian bedrock of the Arthurian legend and the Holy Grail, inspired by the Inklings.
For Luke Martin: follow on X https://x.com/luke_s_martin
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