An Exploration of the Existence and Utility of a Quaker Literary Aesthetic in the Poetry of Philip Gross and Sibyl Ruth

Abstract

Quakers have had an ambivalent historical relationship with creativity, initially placing taboos around its creation and reception, but they now actively make and enjoy literature. This article explores what might constitute a Liberal Quaker Literary Aesthetic (QLA), and tests a theoretical model through an analysis of the poetry of British Quaker poets Philip Gross and Sybil Ruth. The QLA, it is suggested, consists of seven key features: openness, ambiguity and seeking; dialogical engagement; ethical rather than moral writing; creative attention; Quaker sensibility; an apophatic approach to the Divine; silence as presence and force. I argue that this QLA, while partially displayed by other writers of faith or none, is fully demonstrated by these writers, as a development in this context of particular values and the silent, apophatic approach found among British Liberal Quakers brought over into literary writing. I demonstrate that this QLA is a distinctive expression of Liberal Quakerism. I discuss its utility and suggest future avenues of research in comparison with other branches of Quakerism and other faith traditions and none.