I didn’t realize until I was almost done with this book that it’s the first in a series, which currently has four novels in it.Robinson’s general answer is that yes, it’s possible, but also that healthy pluralism is very difficult, never guaranteed, and gains made in this direction are often partial and fragile, even if they are also heartfelt and profound. Probably my favorite theme of the book is the question of whether people can find mutual understanding and forgiveness across generational divides, opposing political and religious beliefs, and racial lines.There are lots of interesting reflections on these events that American history buffs will enjoy. His grandfather was an abolitionist supporter of John Brown’s activism in Kansas during the 1850s. At the time we meet him, Ames has lived through two major World Wars, the 1918 Flu Pandemic, and also grew up in the aftermath of the US Civil War and Reconstruction.This novel is a welcome contrast to the overwhelmingly-urbanite bias of most modern literature, offering consolation and validation for readers seeking happiness and flourishing in America’s rural communities. I really love and relate to Ames’s commitment to the physical environment and small population of Gilead.Ames’s boundless affection for his young son is a joy to encounter. Gilead is one of the most poignant depictions of parenthood that I have read.It’s almost like a meandering work of theology/philosophy with a story tacked on, in a good way. Gilead is a fairly short book, but even so it’s replete with engaging ideas about religion, humanism, nature, ethics, history, social justice, and life in general.Her writing is clean, unpretentious, and intellectually sophisticated––see below for examples. It’s easy to see why she has become so popular with so many readers. Marilynne Robinson has been on my radar for years, but this is the first time I’ve read one of her books.Gilead combines grounded small town realism with timeless religious wisdom to form a powerful narrative brimming with insight, determination, and hope. He also describes how he met his wife, Lila, and explores his complicated relationship with Jack Boughton, the son of his best friend. Ames recounts the exploits of his father and grandfather, both of whom were also preachers. Before giving up the ghost, he decides to write a missive to his young son so the boy might understand his family history and possess a posthumous record of his father’s experiences and worldview. It’s the late 1950s, and Ames is approaching the end of his life. The book is narrated by John Ames, a preacher from the fictional town of Gilead, Iowa. Marilynne Robinson’s Gileadis a superb contribution to the American literary tradition.
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