Poetry day - The love that floweth forth

You could be forgiven for thinking I am reading Phantastes, by George MacDonald, at present, when I am not, I just have some of its poetry in the memory bank. So, for Saturday, here is another, which I think makes it apparent why people should read good fairy tales. Phantastes was instrumental in the conversion of CS Lewis, because in it he caught a glimpse of such enticing goodness, he couldn't leave it be. And I appreciated reading this post this week, on the why of reading fiction, which I shall quote from after the poem.

Better to sit at the waters' birth,

   Than a seas of waves to win;

To live in the love that floweth forth,

   Than the love that cometh in.

Be thy heart a well of love, my child,

   Flowing, and free, and sure;

For a cistern of love, though undefiled,

   Keeps not the spirit pure.

Image from turbophoto.com.

And here is a quote on why Christians should read fiction (if you're one of those people who happens to need a reason ...).

I think fiction is good, necessary, and God-glorifying. I teach my theology students to read good fiction for the sake of their preaching, if for no other reason. Those without the imagination to read fiction usually lack the imagination to hear the rhythm and contours of Scripture, much less to peer into the mysteries of the human heart. I just think schlocky fiction does just the opposite of all of that. I also think human love is a more than worthy subject of writing, including Christian writing. I just think it should be done with authenticity and honesty, and should look at love, not the hormonal utopia our culture has taught us to long for.