Philosophy Blog

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.

Yesterday a teacher I have been meeting every couple of weeks for the last two months wrote to me one of the most touching texts I have ever received:

A thousand thanks—if someone is breathing down my neck, you are the one watching over me. 🙏😇

As you can infer from the text, they are currently confronted to micromanagement.

Aristotle’s notion of eudaimonia (flourishing) suggests that environments promoting growth, responsibility, and virtue lead to better outcomes. I aim to provide them with this environment at least once a fortnight and this regard on their work and who they are.

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!

I'm coming back from a workshop based on the chapter The Aerial Tree from Air and Dreams by Gaston Bachelard.

Together, we explored this image of the aerial tree through reveries of the nest and the act of leaning against a tree.

After a poetry workshop, I always feel so full of optimism and joy—humbled, too. Connecting with others on a poetic level is a privilege I never take for granted.

Thank you to everyone who was here tonight, both newcomers and regulars. Connecting with you was the highlight of my day—even on an already lovely day.

Picture is of a nest we found last spring in our garden!