Imagination Redeemed

Jeremiah England, storyteller and folklorist, brings narrative savvy and folkloric detail. He traces why Cinderella tales recur worldwide. He discusses humility and loss, the helper who breaks in, transformation of ordinary things, and the moment identity is revealed. He connects those beats to deep human longings for being seen and rescued.

Sarah Howell, commentator on imagination and upbringing; Matthew Clark, storyteller who recalls illustrated childhood books; Jeremiah England, who remembers German cautionary tales. They discuss why dark fairy tales persist. They compare eerie illustrations to real-world fears. They debate how storytelling mode, parental prudence, and imaginative practice shape courage and moral formation.

Sarah and Caroline share what’s ahead for the podcast over the next three months, reflect on the meaning of eucatastrophe, and explore how fairy tales help us see this pattern of reality more clearly, and what the material world has to do with it all!Access the show notes through our Substack (head over to anselmsociety.substack)!

Christina Brown, a theological reflector on asceticism and creativity, and Jeremiah England, a literature-minded commentator who links stories to practice, discuss limits through A Gentleman in Moscow. They explore how confinement sharpens character, deepens relationships, and spurs creative growth. Short, thoughtful reflections move from hospitality and habit to sacrifice, beauty, and the surprising freedom found inside constraints.

In this engaging discussion, storyteller Matthew Clark, known for his captivating readings, and musician Christina Brown, who enriches the conversation with insights on hospitality, dive into the concept of pusillanimity, or 'smallness of soul.' They explore how comparison and societal pressures can stifle generosity. Through Tolstoy's tale of Martin the cobbler, the duo emphasizes that true generosity arises from identity, not resources. They highlight the importance of face-to-face encounters and the courage to act, encouraging listeners to embrace magnanimity in everyday life.

The hosts delve into W.H. Auden's captivating poem, exploring its vivid imagery and the contrasting energy that mirrors the holiday rush. They discuss the post-Christmas blues, revealing how Auden captures that familiar letdown. A fascinating take on the interwoven themes of the Lord's Prayer showcases the beauty in simple petitions. Listeners can also look forward to recommended readings on theology, along with details about an upcoming online course. The episode wraps up with a heartfelt final reading of Auden's work.

A little end-of-Advent treat for you!

"Joy and suffering are interconnected."What if joviality isn't just a personality trait—but a virtue we're called to cultivate? In our newest Imagination Redeemed episode, Joffre Swait takes us on a journey through the story of St. Nicholas to explore how generosity, celebration, and community can restore our capacity for joy—even in a culture that's forgotten how to be grateful.We talk about: ✨ Why joy and suffering are inseparable 👑 How joviality reflects a kingly nature 🎉 The role of celebration in cultivating gratitude 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 How to parent with joviality (without pretending suffering doesn't exist)This conversation is an invitation to rediscover the deep comedy at the heart of existence—and to claim your place in it.

Brian and Sarah break down our plans for the next three months of the podcast, reflect on divine abundance and the scandal of the incarnation, and more.

Explore the intertwining of grief and hope through Tolkien's Ainulindalë. Discover how sorrow can be woven into a beautiful harmony rather than a discord. The hosts discuss the powerful concept of a 'third theme' that embraces both joy and ache. Delve into literary reflections that highlight longing and the promise of renewal, using autumn as a metaphor for beauty and change. Learn how to find meaning in struggles, transforming pain into a richer understanding of life’s story.