The Divine Privilege

Name: The Divine Privilege
Author: Alice Meynell

The Divine Privilege by Alice Meynell is a collection of essays that explore the relationship between literature and spirituality. In these essays, Meynell argues that literature has the power to reveal the divine within us and around us, and that it can help us cultivate a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world. Meynell's central argument is that literature has the ability to access the divine, or what she calls "the secret of the universe." She believes that this access is granted through the power of language and imagination, which allow us to transcend our mundane experiences and connect with something greater than ourselves. Throughout the book, Meynell draws on a wide range of literary works, from Shakespeare to Keats, to illustrate her points. She also engages with various philosophical and religious traditions, including Platonism and Christianity, to provide a rich and nuanced understanding of the relationship between literature and spirituality. Overall, The Divine Privilege is a thought-provoking and insightful exploration of the role of literature in our lives. Meynell's writing is both elegant and accessible, making this book an excellent choice for anyone interested in the intersection of literature and spirituality.

By Alice Meynell · First published 1902 · Genre: Poetry, Religion & Spirituality, Literary Criticism · 222 words

First lines

Lord, where are Thy prerogatives?

Why, men have more than Thou hast kept;

The king rewards, remits, forgives,

The poet to a throne has stept.

What this Textopian page supports

The Divine Privilege is listed on Textopian as a poem by Alice Meynell, dated 1902 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Alice Meynell
Date: 1902 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religion & Spirituality, Literary Criticism, Biographies & Memoirs
Length: 222 words
Structure: 1 section, 14 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Work identity for The Divine Privilege by Alice Meynell
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Discussion starters

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Genres

Poetry — Alice Meynell was historically recognized as a prominent English poet during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. 'The Divine Privilege' is more of a collection of her poetry, involving divine and spiritual themes, hence the high ranking for Poetry.
Religion & Spirituality — Given the title, and the body of work Alice Meynell is known for, religion and spirituality are significant themes that pervade her poetry. She often explores spiritual concepts and the divine, leading to the ranking of this genre.
Literary Criticism — Alice Meynell was renowned for the analysis and scrutiny in her work, this genre is ranked due to the careful contemplation, interpretation, and critique of various themes which is a common feature of her poetry.
Biographies & Memoirs — Although the book isn't a biography, many of Meynell's poems are believed to be somewhat autobiographical. The poems often reflect on her experiences and personal life, and as such one can view aspects of this genre within her body of work.