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Talk Write

Talk Write

By: Brandon Cook
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 Regular updates about what makes great writing great.

brandoncookwriter.substack.comBrandon Cook Art Literary History & Criticism Social Sciences
Episodes
  • Who Are You to Judge?

    Who Are You to Judge?
    Aug 22 2025

    In Canto 19, the Roman Eagle of Justice speaks. While Dante wishes to know what becomes of those just rulers who do not profess Christ, the Eagle chides him that this is the wrong question. Man cannot work out God’s justice through moral reasoning. Better is it to look to himself and his own deeds, rather than worry about others. Indeed, at the end of times, we will be surprised by how many just pagans are counted among the blessed, especially in light of how many unjust Christians there are.



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    20 mins
  • Mighty to Save

    Mighty to Save
    Aug 19 2025

    In today's reading, having been treated to a parade of the great warriors of God, from Joshua to the heroes of the Crusades, Dante ascends to the next rung of Paradise: the sphere of Jupiter. The poet is treated to a fabulous light show of illuminating souls, which then transforms into the body of a great eagle: a symbol of the just and temperate rulers.



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    19 mins
  • Taking the Bitter with the Sweet

    Taking the Bitter with the Sweet
    Aug 15 2025

    In today’s reading, Caccuiaguida tells Dante what he can expect in the future. Violence. Betrayal. Banishment. Nevertheless, Dante is told to keep the hope—although his future will be a bitter pill to swallow, his future will long outlast those of his enemies.



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    21 mins
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