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Something Understood

Religion & Ethics

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life

Ethical and religious discussion that examines some of the larger questions of life, taking a spiritual theme and exploring it through music, prose and poetry

BBC Radio 4 FM

Something Understood: The Candle

27/12/2015

The Candle

BBC Radio 4 - Something Understood, The Candle

Sarah Cuddon reflects on the special qualities of candlelight.

The writer and broadcaster Sarah Cuddon reflects on the special qualities of candlelight, from celebration and remembrance to romance.

"Look at how a single candle can both defy and define the darkness."

Starting with these words from Anne Frank's diary, the writer and radio producer Sarah Cuddon reflects on the special qualities of candlelight, from celebration and remembrance to romance. She draws on the poetry of Sylvia Plath and Kathleen Jamie and writings by Jez Butterworth and Angela Carter, as well as music by Anton Bruckner, Bill Bruford and Willie Nelson. 

And she talks to the writer Matthew Engel about his recent journey around England and the pull he felt to visit every Cathedral on his route, lighting a candle.

Readers: Joanna David and Henry Goodman

Produced by Alan Hall
A Falling Tree production for BBC Radio 4.

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