Z aktora kapłan. Od „Króla-Ducha” do „słowiańskiego papieża”

Abstract

This article is concerned with the fragmentary nature of Juliusz Słowacki’s poem “Król‑Duch”, its mystical‑Christian dimension and the impact it had on Karol Wojtyła. Openness to infinity and perpetuality of literature is made clear by referring to Friedrich Schlegel and his idea on the endlessness of romantic poetry, as well as to Roland Barthes, who draws attention to the text as a fabric creating a “wonderful image”. “Król‑Duch”, being a work that requires a patient and soulful reader, ready to travel through the labyrinth, is noticed by Karol Wojtyla, who recognizes the poem as a perfect Christian epic. Participation in the Rhapsodic Theater and the change that occurred in the thought of the later pope indicate a deep understanding of the truths hidden in the work. It also proves that a new way of reading – a long conversation with the text, can lead to repentance. The article attempts to prove that literary mysticism, the experience of the relationship of the “I” with God, as well as spiritual activity bring the work of the romantic poet closer to the poetry of Karol Wojtyła, while making John Paul II the next “King‑Spirit”, the Spirit that orients the nation towards the highest levels of Divine Love.