Writer. Contributing Editor at The Discarded Image. Digital Content Strategist. Here's where I publicly explore the books I'm reading, the projects I'm working on, and other current interests. The Short Day Dying, Part 2: Discussion Questions
In my previous post, I promised a second installment on The Short Day Dying. The spiritual themes are too deep to unpack in a single essay or discussion, but I offer here a few questions to scratch the surface. Please comment on any or all, and for the sake of easier discussion, refer to the question number(s) in your response. Feel free to interact on other issues as well.
1) How does the style add (or detract) from the author’s purpose?
2) To what major theme of the book does the title refer?
3) How does the physical landscape of Cornwall, as described by the main character, reflect the spiritual landscape of its inhabitants?
4) What are some of the frustrations Charles feels as an itinerant preacher in a destitute community? What are some of his fears?
5) Compare and/or contrast his blacksmith work to his ministerial work, the two duties that occupy all of his time. Does he see them as distinct or related?
6) What does he find in his relationship with Harriet that is such a loss after her death? Was he in love with her?
7) In what ways do his experiences, and his reflections on them, demonstrate the eschatological concept of the “already/not yet�
8) What are some of the actions or thoughts that demonstrate that Charles’ spiritual doubts are becoming a crisis?
9) On p168 he says: “the Church is lodged in me like a fishbone in my throat I cannot be rid of it but it threatens to choke me.†What does he mean?
10) In at least two passages, one at the beginning of the book (p 12) and one at the end (179), Charles describes faith as a stone—but one reference is more positive, the other more negative. What does he mean? How has his perspective changed?
11) Is his theology more works-oriented or more grace-oriented? Does he seem to have assurance of salvation?
12) Does he ultimately lose his faith or find it again? What is the pivotal moment leading to this outcome?
13) In what way does his perspective of having inherited, or been entrusted with, his pastoral role affect the outcome of his spiritual crisis?
14) Is the book ultimately hopeless or hopeful?
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