I’m a huge John Updike fan; I’ve read all his novels, and love his insightful book reviews, art reviews and essays; my son tells me he is “so out now, Dad," but you know what? I don’t care!
One of the reasons I find Updike intriguing is that he was a man of faith who didn’t shy away from integrating that faith into his work. He had a German Lutheran background; and as a student of Harvard was introduced to the writings of Soren Kierkegaard, the 19th century Danish
theologian, and Karl Barth, probably the greatest Protestant theologian of the 20th century. All these influences shaped a Christian worldview.
Later in life, Updike became a devout Episcopalian; a clergy friend of mine was his Rector and told me that Updike was a stern critic of my friend's sermons, loved the liturgy of the 1928 Prayer Book, and was a regular at the 8:00 AM Eucharist. John Updike also wrote some poetry which, once again, the critics don’t give high marks to. But one of his poems, “7 Stanzas At Easter” is one of my all- time favorite poems. In true Updikean style he doesn’t mince words. Since Easter is right around the corner I send it along for your consideration:
- Jeffrey
