So what does it all mean? This is where the book tapers off. I won't spoil the ending but lets just say it goes out not with a bang but a whimper. The cause of this lack of punch in my mind is that the author has more questions than answers. He can discuss the literary, theological, and personal aspects of the Gospels and he can ask insightful and thought provoking questions about the role of faith but he doesn’t come to any definite conclusions. In the end he winds up with a sort of wishy-washy view of divinity strongly influenced by process theology of the sort discussed in Gregg Easterbrook's
Beside Still Waters. If you are a person of faith this will leave you a little unfulfilled. Or if you are looking for some answers, or some denouement it will leave you unsatisfied.
Despite its weaknesses and its quirks, however, The Afterword is an interesting and thought provoking book. Those with an interest in the "art of the novel" will find food for thought while those interested in religion and faith in the modern world will find interesting insights as well as thought provoking discussions. So if you are looking for something different for the beach, park or ride to work (for those of you using mass transit – everyone else don't read and drive!) pick up a copy of The Afterword. It is small, sleek, and easy to read. Perfect for summertime.
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