Philosophy Blog

Yesterday, we had our final gathering of the season at Cherish, exploring Gaston Bachelard’s fabulous philosophy of poetry.

As a conclusion to his work on the poetics of the elements—and a transition toward his reflections on the poetics of space—we grounded our writing in the chapter “The House of Our Birth and the Oneiric House” from The Earth and Reveries of Repose.

It was one of my favourite sessions, with participants deeply moved by the theme of home, especially in a city like Ōtautahi.

I’m looking forward to beginning our new cycle this Spring, centred on Bachelard’s best-seller The Poetics of Space.

We had the joy of welcoming a new gifted participant to our philosophy/poetry group at Cherish tonight! His name is Harley Bell. He teaches creative writing and it’s been both humbling and inspiring to have him in the group. He even delivered targeted feedback to one of us - who had specifically requested it. No one here receives feedback that they have not explicitly asked for! But I really appreciated the way he did it - it resonated very well with Bachelard’s idea that “To revive a language by creating new images—this is the function of literature and poetry.”

Together during this session, we explored how certain images of the earth can foster rest and even wrote a poem for our Friday meditation group—Earth’s Lullaby. We also created another piece inspired by more dynamic and stimulating earthy objects.

There is always an incredible creative atmosphere in these sessions—both nourishing and stimulating—offering a deep connection to oneself and others.

If you'd like to experience it for yourself, a few sessions remain this autumn:

March the 26th

April the 9th (with guest teacher Susannah Kenton)

April the 23rd

⏰ 6:30 PM
📍 52 Bealey Ave

I was dusting my office—once my mother-in-law’s library—when I stumbled upon The Poetics of Space by Gaston Bachelard. The very book I had searched for in every library in Christchurch, hiding on a shelf I had not dusted in years… or perhaps ever. Or maybe just not attentively enough.

So I’m taking a moment to honour the memory of this incredible woman—with whom I did not always have an easy relationship.

You were—you are—an exceptional person. And I am so grateful we kept all your books. Thank you for this trove of treasures.

I cannot wait to offer the next series of poetry workshops inspired by The Poetics of Space next spring.

I am very excited to start facilitating workshops at the Canterbury Workers Educational Association / Roopu Kaimahi Matauranga o Waitaha from Spring 2025!

Dates and details to be confirmed.

I have been so humbled by the doors opening in Ōtautahi Christchurch.

Kia Ora.

Please feel free to join any of these Wednesdays:

• 26th of February

• 12th of March

• 26th of March

• 9th of April (with guest teacher Susannah Kenton)

• 23rd of April.

Space is limited and bookings are appreciated so I can get the room ready, or change room if necessary. Please write to me at lucie@philia.co.nz. I would be delighted to answer any question you might have!

I can still welcome 4 more people to any of these sessions.

Please help me with the cost of the books, the photocopies and the time I spend preparing the sessions. Most people donate 20 dollars per session. But please adjust to your current means and needs!