John of the Cross (1542-1591), saint and doctor of the church, is known for his mystical doctrine and his theme of the “dark night.” This lecture explores John’s stunningly beautiful poetry and makes a claim for the primacy of this poetry which was shaped by the erotic poetry of the Song of Songs and which John requested be sung for him as he lay dying.
This lecture is made possible in part by a grant from the Carmelite Friars at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish.