Hope is Kindled
A podcast devoted to the way stories shape us, sharpen us, and sometimes… save us.
Hope is Kindled is a literary podcast that explores classic and powerful works of literature through the lens of self-discovery, moral reflection, and enduring hope. Each episode delves into a single book, essay, or story, examining its themes, characters, and psychological depth, and connects it to timeless questions about the human condition.
What makes the podcast unique is its blend of literary criticism and warmth. It uses biographical, psychological, and historical criticism, along with personal reflection and cultural commentary—including references to Doctor Who, The Muppets, and classic film.
Please let us know what you think of our episodes, if you have any ideas for future episodes or to share your experiences looking searching for hope in the literary world.
Hope is Kindled
Papillon
In this episode of Hope is Kindled, we turn to Papillon, Henri Charrière’s unforgettable tale of resilience, defiance, and the unbreakable human spirit. For the first time on this podcast, you’ll also hear a guest voice—my own—bringing a more personal dimension to the reading and reflection. It felt critical to get this story in at this moment, because Papillon reminds us that hope is not a luxury but a necessity—that even in the harshest cages, the human will can dream, endure, and rise. This book matters, and its lessons on courage, friendship, and freedom belong alongside the greatest works we have explored together.
