I have always believed that the material world is governed by nonmaterial sources, so that in that sense 'English Music' is an exercise in the spiritual as well as the material. I have always been attracted to the Gothic and spiritual imagination, and I've always been interested in visionaries.

Peter Ackroyd’s quote, "I have always believed that the material world is governed by nonmaterial sources, so that in that sense 'English Music' is an exercise in the spiritual as well as the material. I have always been attracted to the Gothic and spiritual imagination, and I've always been interested in visionaries," reflects his belief in the deep connection between the spiritual and material worlds. Ackroyd suggests that what we see and experience in the physical world is influenced by nonmaterial forces, such as the spiritual, imaginative, and visionary realms. This viewpoint shapes much of his work, which often blends the tangible with the ethereal, creating narratives that explore both physical reality and the invisible forces that influence it.

In the context of his "English Music", Ackroyd sees it not only as a reflection of English culture and history but also as an exploration of both the spiritual and material aspects of life. He acknowledges the Gothic elements of his writing, which often explore themes of darkness, the supernatural, and the unseen forces that shape human experience. This connection between the physical and the metaphysical is central to his work, where both aspects are intertwined, creating a narrative that reflects the complexity of the human condition.

Ackroyd’s attraction to the Gothic and spiritual imagination speaks to his interest in exploring the mystical, the unknown, and the visionary aspects of the world. These themes often manifest in his work through characters, settings, and stories that transcend the ordinary and venture into the realm of the supernatural and the divine. By mentioning his interest in visionaries, Ackroyd highlights his fascination with individuals who perceive reality in extraordinary ways, often seeing beyond the material world and into realms others cannot.

Ultimately, Ackroyd’s quote speaks to his artistic vision, which seeks to capture the interplay between the material and the spiritual. His work is a reflection of his belief that the world we see is deeply shaped by forces beyond our immediate understanding, and he is drawn to explore these forces through the lens of Gothic and visionary themes. His approach to writing allows him to create narratives that are both rooted in reality and elevated by the imagination and spiritual insight.