Coracle Trust E-Reflections

Clutching the sky’s sheets

Monday 2 September 1968

When He touches me I clutch the sky’s sheets,
the way other lovers
do

The sky’s sheets, Saint Teresa of Avila

Strengthen me with raisins, refresh me with apples, for I am faint with love. 
(Song of Solomon 2:5)

Detail from the Descent from the Cross. Fresco, Aula delle monache in San Maurizio in Milano.

The power of a wizened grape and a fresh look at granny smiths?

It’s interesting to note that one of the world’s most erotic texts is in the Bible.  This book, the Song of Solomon, is the book most often commentated on by theologians prior to the Reformation and the ‘Enlightenment’ where the rational gained and filled centre stage. Furthermore the most ecstatic writings in Christian tradition materialised from the hermits, and celebates.  There is to and fro, the dialogue and mutual longing expressed throughout the book.  Arise my darling, my beautiful one, and come with me.  His left arm is under my head and his right arm embraces me.  And these yearnings are returned: Turn your eyes from me, they overwhelm me.

Let’s not be prudes

In considering this stage of young adulthood, of passion two thoughts occur.  The first is that passion is a drive for intimacy, for a deep sharing of heart and spirit.  Friendship as expressed by Mary Magdalene is at its core.  The second is an image of God as a star struck, love sick teenager.  A young Romeo and Juliet.  The erotic has long, though not of late, been regarded as the most apt to carry and convey the depth of desire for, and expressions of, union.  The 16th century Teresa was wholehearted in reform and no recluse.  She ends her poem on this rather vigorous note. 

Any real ecstasy is a sign
you are moving
in the right direction,

don’t let any prude tell
you otherwise.