symbolism and metaphysical images to portray her thoughts on religion, while avoiding the

dangers of making it too confusing, or too preachy. Descriptions combined with the narration

of the absurd are effectively used even without informing the reader that her material departs

from their own expectations of what is real. Her writing is filled with specific, memorable,

seemingly random thoughts that eventually develop deep metaphoric power.

"On the whole," Dillard writes, " I do not find Christians, outside of the catacombs,

sufficiently sensible of conditions. Does anyone have the foggiest idea what sort of power we so

blithely invoke?" This statement implies that institutionalized religion has somehow lessened the

true emotions and freedoms of nature and experience. Perhaps the structure of an organized

religion sometimes require us to hide our genuine feelings, and replace them with what we are

suppose to be feeling, or following.

Dillard writes in a sly witty commanding tone that shines a mystical light around ideas in

Also consider her use of key words and phrases associated with destruction and

religious principle or moral attitude. Dillard's writing style demands much of the casual everyday

question, "Does anyone have the foggiest idea what sort of power we so blithely invoke ?" sounds

writing. Consider her word choice for the first question. She uses the word "foggiest" in the same

checklist, rather than on true and sincere faith in God. Perhaps Dillard knows she is one of them,

Some common words found in the essay are:
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Approximate Word count = 901
Approximate Pages = 4 (250 words per page double spaced)