CMP Review 2024-05-07

May 7, 2024

In Ourselves, Charlotte Mason refers to imagination as “My Lord Chief Explorer.” As with all the characters in Mansoul, imagination is in the child from birth. But whether it thrives and brings life or decays and brings death depends on how it is managed by the government of Mansoul.

Arthur Burrell shared Miss Mason’s belief that imagination is the inherent possession of all who are born persons. He too saw that imagination could thrive or decay. As an experienced teacher and celebrated author, he was keen to urgent parents to preserve the wonderful imaginative power in children.

At the 6th annual PNEU Conference in 1902, Burrell shared his advice. His paper was at once informative, humorous, challenging, and poignant. It is an unforgettable read. But with Burrell’s noted accomplishments in recitation and storytelling, it must have been even more unforgettable to hear.

Today we have recreated the historical moment. Our talented audio performer Greg Rolling brings us the words of Arthur Burrell with conviction and feeling. Listen here and let Burrell and Rolling unfold for you the task before parents and teachers: “Difficult I know it is … impossible it is not.”

@artmiddlekauff