The Metaphysical Club

    I try to read one book at a time in order to take time to digest the material and reflect on the content.   That being said, the books I am currently reading are Reaching Out by Henri Nouwen, When Helping Hurts by Steve Corbett, Where Shall Wisdom be Found? by Harold Bloom, and the Metaphysical Club, by Louis Menand.  All of the books are interesting and helpful, but the ladder has really grabbed my attention.
   
      The Metaphysical club is the story of ideas in America, told from antebellum through postbellum northern thinkers.  The narrative, thus far, has a variety of characters displayed, including Ralph Waldo Emerson and William Lloyd Garrison.  It seems both men have a lot to say to my thoughts on how the world works, and my place in it.  Emerson's advise being the critical/analytic...think for yourself and never stop thinking (though, to me, he seems he takes it way to far...conjuring up paradoxes..especially concerning leadership in the church and religion in general).  William Lloyd Garrison's view of Christianity and culture is brutal, yet refreshing.  Specifically, in what he is famous for, his abolitionist magazine, the Liberator.  Brutal = no stock in government and anti-government.  Refreshing = Having a faith that transcends the political/social structures around you and that is inherently action based.
 

      I have enjoyed reading this book for a variety of reasons.  The subject matter, ideas, is interesting to me.  Also, I have been brought back into a time period that I know a little bit about (History 3-- Civil War).  Last, but most important...good historical literature thrusts the reader into a place, time, prescribes a worldview, and allows them to look around and be amazed at what they see.  Now I just need to finish chapter two :)