Beauty (and the Banana)

Foreword

(wrote the foreword)

Joseph M. Holden

“Writing within the classical, metaphysical Christian tradition, Brian Nixon utilizes the modern signifier 'theopoetics' in composing his own aesthetics. Even we postmodern, post-metaphysical theopoets can learn much from Nixon's project: an engaging exploration of the history, philosophy, theology, and return of beauty in spiritual reflection and writing.”

Scott Holland

“After thirty-plus years working as a field archaeologist in Israel, Palestine, and Jordan, I've become well aware of beauty in the most unexpected places--from artifacts lost to human eyes for thousands of years to the natural beauty of the rugged southern Levant. In Brian Nixon's newest book, he unearths the fundamental factors of beauty, showing us that beauty is discovered and apprehended in fascinating ways. Like a good theological-archeologist, Brian digs up unique mental artifacts, highlighting the role beauty plays in theology and in life. I highly recommend the read.”

Steven Collins

“Dr. Brian Nixon's analysis of beauty is brilliant! In Beauty (and the Banana), Nixon has the keen ability to draw clear and concise practical application from the most sophisticated and nuanced materials. It is with the highest praise that I commend Dr. Nixon to you, be it via the written word, artistic expression, or his many musical manifestations. You will be wonderfully enriched as you engage with Dr. Nixon in his varied and fruitful intellectual and spiritual meanderings.”

Chapin Marsh

“In Psalm 27, David said his heart's desire was to gaze upon the 'beauty of the Lord.' Beauty, like love, deepens when our soul chooses to gaze upon it. This dazzling book is a profound exploration and invitation into an often overlooked (or more accurately, perceived) topic. It will encourage you, challenge you, and reorient you--so like David, you'll be more in awe of the artistry of God.”

Dominic Done

“Beauty (and the Banana) is an engaging and insightful introduction to one of the central questions of our contemporary era: What is Beauty? Brian Nixon provides an informed framework in which this question can be examined thoughtfully and theologically. Nixon carefully guides the reader through a complex subject using clear examples, jargon-free language, and a sensitivity to the most important features of this inquiry. I strongly recommend this book as an introductory guide and a faithful reference for the thoughtful development of a culturally sensitive, philosophically astute, and theologically wise apologetic linking goodness, truth, and beauty to trinitarian theology. Students, creatives, and pilgrims within the cultural landscape will find within this book guidance for the journey.”

Scott B. Key

“Beauty (and the Banana) takes the reader on a skillfully guided journey through many facets of the study of beauty. Seen through the lens of aesthetics, philosophy's interpretations over the centuries, and theology and biblical insights, we see how our perception of beauty has been shaped. This book takes us past the superficial understanding that beauty is purely subjective, recognizing it as innate, intelligent, and transcendent. Beauty is informed and infused with God, his person, and his handiwork most beautifully reflected in the person of Christ. A must-read for those interested in art.”

Sandra Bowden