EIRENE and Richard Palmer have produced a gem of a book, which will encourage many of us to pick up a pen and have a go at praying through writing. They write in so easy and accessible a style, blending their two voices into one, that their text becomes an exemplum of their teaching. And it is a simple lesson that they have to impart: namely, that the way to unlock the hidden and often inarticulate meaning of our lives and the world around us is through the written word.
Their book acts as a gentle and wise guide that allows the page to become a place of inky insight and deep spiritual expression. It begins with the introduction, which acts as a call to enter their book and embark on a journey to find your voice. The first chapter sets out the basics: that we all love a story, and all have a story to tell, while spiritual writing flows from the deepest part of us and reveals treasures for ourselves and others to enjoy.
The following chapters give tips and advice on how to mine these moments through the alchemy of the page — the past, present, and future. The rest of the book presents the reader with methods for overcoming the agony of the empty page, which ranges from free writing and spiritual journalling to the intentional act of writing as, first, therapy, and then as prayer, and finally to consider the “marvellous metaphor”.
The book closes with words that feel like a parent setting you out on an adventure: “Be who you are. And write. Go well.” With their guidebook in your hand, your first thought will undoubtedly be “Where did I lay that pen?” as, with relief, you at last have found a reason to turn the computer off.
The Revd Dr Emma Pennington is Canon Missioner of Canterbury Cathedral.
The Art of Spiritual Writing: Discovering your most authentic writing . . . and more about yourself on the way
Eirene Palmer and Richard Palmer
DLT £12.99
(978-1-915412-92-8)
Church Times Bookshop £11.69
