Rod Dreher: Covid fueled the Christian re-enchantment

Rod Dreher's "Living in Wonder" explores the resurgence of spiritual and mystical experiences in a technologically advanced, secular world. The book delves into the concept of 're-enchantment,' examining how individuals are seeking deeper meaning and connection beyond traditional religious institutions. Dreher discusses various phenomena, including UFOs, AI, and the occult, as manifestations of this spiritual yearning. He argues that while these experiences can be genuine, they must be understood within a Christian framework to avoid potential dangers. Ultimately, the book advocates for a return to a more profound and direct experience of faith.

In 'Hillbilly Elegy,' J.D. Vance recounts his life growing up in a dysfunctional family in Middletown, Ohio, with roots in Kentucky's Appalachia. The book details his experiences with poverty, addiction, and family violence, as well as his journey to joining the marines and eventually graduating from Yale Law School. Vance provides a personal and insightful look into the decline of the white working class in America, exploring themes of family, culture, and the loss of the American dream. The memoir also touches on the political swing of the region, particularly in relation to the 2016 presidential election and the appeal of Donald Trump to this demographic.

The book is divided into two parts. The first part recounts Frankl's harrowing experiences as a prisoner in Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz, between 1942 and 1945. He describes the inhumane conditions and the psychological and emotional struggles of the prisoners. The second part introduces Frankl's theory of logotherapy, which posits that the primary human drive is the search for meaning, rather than pleasure. Frankl argues that meaning can be found through three main avenues: work (doing something significant), love (caring for another), and suffering (finding meaning in one's own suffering). The book emphasizes the importance of finding purpose and meaning in life, even in the most adverse conditions, as a key factor in survival and personal growth.