In Flannery O'Connor's preface to Wise Blood, she says
"For them (many readers) Hazel Motes' (the main character) integrity lies in his trying with such vigor to get rid of the ragged figure (Jesus) who moves from tree to tree in the back of his mind. For the author (O'Connor herself) Hazel's integrity lies in his not being able to. Does one's integrity ever lie in what he is not able to do? I think it usually does, for free will does not mean one will, but many wills conflicting in one man. Freedom cannot be conceived simply. It is a mystery and one which a novel, even a comic novel, can only be asked to deepen."
Does this mean that the character chooses Christ, in a sense, even without wanting to? even while setting up the "Church of Christ without Christ"?
The "many wills conflicting in one man" makes me think of discernment of spirits and things like that. The idea of trying to not choose wrong and instead choosing right is the reversal of Paul's "I do want that which I dont want to do, and dont do that which I do."
The whole idea also gives a sense of how things like literature, art, and prayer can change you internally - even when you seem to desire the same things. Perhaps a part of you chooses Christ, but outwardly you continue to want to behave a certain way. The conflict between the different choices will affect things like your inhibitions and your spontaneity.
...
Walker Percy -
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T6jaJy3gL2I&feature=related
nothing exciting, but he's the man
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Latin for Soldier of Charity. We are a band of brothers that support each other through prayer and shared experiences. We are united by our faith in Jesus Christ and His Church. We devote ourselves to the care of Mary, the Mother of God. We share our views and interests, whether cultural or faith related, on this blog. Enjoy!
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