Redeeming Reads

Dylan & Taylor introduce the next book on the podcast & why it is still applicable in 2022.

The guys go remote this episode. Taylor chooses a tea as a coffee alternative. The guys discuss the finale of the book and draw connections to Pilgrim’s Progress. What do Kurtz’ dying words mean? What is the role of the women in the novel? Is the story an allegory after all? The guys interpret themes of sight, blindness, and truth unveiled through the light of the gospel.

Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad (Part 3)

Intro & Coffee Banter: 00:00:57

Book Discussion: 00:03:42

Gospel Reflection: 00:42:09

This time Dylan brings the coffee for Taylor. They learn the cost of ivory tusks in USD, discuss the literary decision to leave most characters unnamed, & compare the story to ancient Greek epics. Taylor reflects on the Holocaust's impact subsequent to the progress of the Insustrial Revolution. Dylan reflects on implications from the sermon on the mount in the face of corrupt authority. How do we reckon with a story where all characters are morally broken, & what do we do with our own moral failings? More pressing questions include: Are pink pajamas a good look? Is there coffee from the Congo? What flavor is bubble gum, anyway? What do John Calvin & St. Augustine have to do with this book? Taylor chooses the name for the dark roast of his future coffee shop.

Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad (Part 2)

Intro & Coffee Banter: 00:01:07

Book Discussion: 00:05:00

Gospel Reflection: 00:56:00

Dylan & Taylor explain their first book selection for the podcast.

Taylor brings the coffee for Dylan to try. They discuss various themes of their long-standing favorite novel, such as existentialism, absurdity, psychological descent, light-dark dualism, hypocrisy, & Marlow’s seeming indifference in the face of racial oppression. What do we do with the absurdity in our own lives? Is Heart of Darkness inspired by Ecclesiastes? Does this story represent a de-creation? Even deeper reflections include: What is custard, anyway? Why is most modern Christian music so bad? Is blueberry wine even a thing?

Heart of Darkness by Joseph Conrad (Part 1)

Intro & Coffee Banter: 00:00:59

Book Discussion: 00:03:13

Gospel Reflection: 01:09:59

Dylan Berridge & Taylor Gilbert introduce the purpose behind Redeeming Reads: a podcast interpreting classic novels in light of the gospel.