Meaning: The quote "What I do deny is that you can build any enduring society without some such mystical ethos" by Herbert Read, a poet and art historian, raises the question of whether a society can be sustained without a mystical or spiritual foundation. In this quote, Read seems to be suggesting that a society needs a sense of mystery or spirituality in order to endure over time. This idea touches on the broader debate about the role of spirituality and mysticism in shaping the foundation of societies and their long-term sustainability.

Herbert Read was a prominent figure in the field of art and literature, and his views on society and culture were influenced by his experiences as a poet and art historian. Throughout his career, Read explored the connections between art, culture, and society, seeking to understand the underlying forces that shape human civilization. His work often delved into questions of spirituality, mysticism, and the role of these elements in the construction and endurance of societies.

The quote implies that a mystical ethos, or a sense of mystery and spirituality, is a fundamental element in the construction of enduring societies. Without such a foundation, Read suggests that a society may struggle to maintain itself over time. This idea raises important questions about the role of spirituality and mysticism in shaping the values, beliefs, and practices that underpin a society's longevity.

At its core, the quote speaks to the idea that there are aspects of human existence and societal organization that transcend the purely rational or material. It suggests that a mystical ethos, with its emphasis on the transcendent and the unknown, provides a kind of glue that holds societies together over the long term. This notion is echoed in various cultural and religious traditions, where spirituality and mysticism often play a central role in shaping the collective identity and values of a community.

From a historical perspective, many enduring societies have indeed been shaped by mystical or spiritual beliefs and practices. Ancient civilizations, for example, often incorporated religious or mystical elements into their social and political structures. These belief systems provided a sense of meaning and purpose for individuals within the society and helped to foster a sense of collective identity and cohesion.

In the modern era, the role of mysticism and spirituality in society remains a topic of debate and exploration. While secularism and rationalism have gained prominence in many parts of the world, spiritual and mystical beliefs continue to shape the values and behaviors of countless individuals and communities. This ongoing tension between the rational and the mystical underscores the complexity of human societies and the diverse factors that contribute to their endurance and evolution.

Ultimately, Herbert Read's quote challenges us to consider the role of mysticism and spirituality in the construction of enduring societies. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which these elements contribute to the cohesion, resilience, and longevity of human communities. Whether one agrees with Read's assertion or not, the quote serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the deeper forces that underpin the fabric of human society.