Douglas Wilson, expert on all things Chesterton and Reformed, discusses the relationship between Chesterton and Calvinism, the attitude of freedom among early Protestants and Puritans, salvation by grace, the value of reading old books and appreciating differing theological views, the detachment of a word-centered faith, and reflections on writing styles and the apologetic value of beauty.
Early Protestants embraced Calvinism in a joyful and Chestertonian way.
Chesterton's writing style uses vividness, humor, and abundant metaphors as an integral part of his arguments.
Protestants can reclaim their unique contribution to the arts by nurturing a vibrant literary culture rooted in the word.
Deep dives
Chesterton's Appreciation for Calvinism
Chesterton admired Calvinism and saw it as a matter of liberation from scruples, not getting tangled up in them. He believed that the early Protestants and Puritans embraced Calvinism in a joyful and Chestertonian way, in contrast to the later naval-gazing and introspection. Chesterton's book, 'Chester Tony and Calvinism,' explores Chesterton's love for the brilliance and occasional howlers of G.K. Chesterton and his antipathy towards Calvinism. The book highlights the need to understand and appreciate the early Protestants' joyful approach to Calvinism.
Chesterton's Writing Style
Chesterton's writing style is characterized by its vividness, humor, and abundant use of metaphors. He skillfully weaves imagery and language into his arguments, with the metaphors being an essential part of his message, rather than merely decorative aspects. Chesterton's style is not a separate layer added on top of the substance, but an inherent part of his argument itself. His style emerges effortlessly, with a sense of stream of consciousness and a constant flow of ideas.
Returning to a Protestant Aesthetic
There is a need to return to a Protestant aesthetic that embraces the arts and creativity, particularly in the written word. The Reformed tradition has a rich heritage of verbal artists, who excel in their use of language, metaphor, and imagery. Emphasizing the importance of biblical literacy and preaching the gospel with a focus on logos, connecting spiritual and physical realities. By nurturing a vibrant literary culture rooted in the word, Protestants can reclaim their unique contribution to the arts and engage a broader cultural audience.
Different Writing Styles: Tolkien, Lewis, and Others
Chesterton had a unique writing style that set him apart from other writers of his time. While other writers like Tolkien were meticulous and fussy, Chesterton appeared to open the valve and let his thoughts flow effortlessly onto paper. Lewis, a fellow writer, shared a similar approach, writing quickly and relying on intuition. Each writer had their own distinct style, emphasizing the importance of finding one's own voice and creative process.
The Apologetic Value of Beauty
Conservative Protestant believers can harness the apologetic power of beauty by recognizing the significance of aesthetics. Returning to a Protestant aesthetic grounded in the word and embracing creativity can offer a persuasive testimony to the world. By appreciating and cultivating beauty, Protestants can highlight the power of divine craftsmanship and engage broader audiences with the profound truths of the faith.
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Are you a Calvinist who has a weakness for G. K. Chesterton? Join the club! What attracts readers to Chesterton is the combination of artful prose, joyous gratitude, and serious attention to perennial truths. Wouldn't it be great if more Calvinists were like him? Well, according to Douglas Wilson we once were and we can be again. Join us for a wide-ranging conversation with Doug on all things Chesterton and Reformed. And check out his informative book for yourself.
