This piece – although very short – spoke volumes.
If I had to describe Langston, the 12 year old prepubescent boy, I might describe him as inquisitive, honest, trustworthy and hopeful. I assume he’s prepubescent because of his innocence and naivety, with waiting for the metaphorical light to come into him. Waiting for Jesus to just…..fill him with the Holy Spirit as it is described and as we often hear (in certain cultures and communities). In a few short sentences though, Langston was no longer naive and innocent, but doubtful, saddened, disappointed and maybe slightly angry.
The complexity of the many ironies that occurred in this piece, this can be a heavy topic of discussion. Westley exclaiming “God damn!…….” before going to be “saved” to avoid being encouraged to be saved any longer. Langston’s aunt assuming he was crying tears of joy and love for Jesus entering his life, when in reality it was the opposite. I think the biggest irony I noticed was Langston losing hope, sight and belief in Jesus in the very place that worshippers go to find him and be closer to him.
Langston grew up on a Sunday afternoon, after not finding Jesus.
2 thoughts on “Tracey Mainer – Week 3 Discussion”
If I had to describe Langston, the 12 year old prepubescent boy, I might describe him as inquisitive, honest, trustworthy and hopeful. I assume he’s prepubescent because of his innocence and naivety, with waiting for the metaphorical light to come into him. Waiting for Jesus to just…..fill him with the Holy Spirit as it is described and as we often hear (in certain cultures and communities). In a few short sentences though, Langston was no longer naive and innocent, but doubtful, saddened, disappointed and maybe slightly angry.
The complexity of the many ironies that occurred in this piece, this can be a heavy topic of discussion. Westley exclaiming “God damn!…….” before going to be “saved” to avoid being encouraged to be saved any longer. Langston’s aunt assuming he was crying tears of joy and love for Jesus entering his life, when in reality it was the opposite. I think the biggest irony I noticed was Langston losing hope, sight and belief in Jesus in the very place that worshippers go to find him and be closer to him.
Langston grew up on a Sunday afternoon, after not finding Jesus.
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Hey Tracey! Great post again! I appreciate your insightful analysis of Langston’s character development and the many ironies present in the story. Langston’s initial innocence and hopefulness are contrasted with his growing doubt and disappointment as he realizes that he can’t see or feel the presence of Jesus physically. I have observed that the story raises up questions about faith, belied, and religious experience. Overall, this is a strong and thought-provoking story that encourages us as a student to reflect on our own beliefs and experiences with religion.