Patočka, Myth, and Literature: Illustrations of the Possibility of Paradise on Earth

In a couple of different works, Jan Patočka discusses the possibility of building a new paradise on earth, relating it to myths of a primeval paradise as well as some works by Dostoevsky. In some of Patočka’s writings, this possibility of a paradise on earth also appears, described as ‘new love’ or ‘universal love’. Unlike the myths of a time before the Fall, the possibility of an earthly paradise would be true to the human condition of finitude, understanding, and freedom. However, what is – or is there – the possibility of heaven on earth? What are the differences between the original paradise and the promise of this one? What is ‘love’, or are there different loves?