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A review by cody240fc
Silence by Shūsaku Endō
4.0
Endo's novel is an exploration into several key concepts of Christianity; mainly that of mercy. 'Silence' starts off slow, with most of the pages consisting of the internal ruminations of Father Rodrigues. The Father has a tendency to spend most of his waking life comparing himself to Judas and his Savior. It's interesting at times, but can also be somewhat of a bore.
The ending, however, is nothing short of powerful. Father Rodrigues is forced to consider what he perceives to be the ultimate sacrifice. His decision raises the question of which is more Godly; to sacrifice that which is most dear to you for the sake of others or to preserve your promise to the Church?
The source for the title of the novel becomes clear early on but I found these closing lines to be very compelling:
"Lord, I resented your silence."
"I was not silent. I suffered beside you."
The ending, however, is nothing short of powerful. Father Rodrigues is forced to consider what he perceives to be the ultimate sacrifice. His decision raises the question of which is more Godly; to sacrifice that which is most dear to you for the sake of others or to preserve your promise to the Church?
The source for the title of the novel becomes clear early on but I found these closing lines to be very compelling:
"Lord, I resented your silence."
"I was not silent. I suffered beside you."