“With My Utmost Art”: The Inspiration of George Herbert's Poetry and the Limits of Austin Farrer's Vision

Abstract

This essay argues that poetry can participate in God's ongoing self-revelation in the world, against Austin Farrer's view that the conveyance of supernatural truths is restricted to prophecy and the original apostolic witness. The author turns to Farrer's own descriptions of inspiration and revelation in The Glass of Vision to support this claim, as well as advocating with Ingolf Dalferth for a trans-historical understanding of the Spirit's work of revelation. Finally, through a close reading of key poems in George Herbert's The Temple, the essay offers an account of how the Spirit might move through the medium of poetry, leading poet and reader to deeper knowledge and love of God in Christ.