The never-ending clashing of good and evil, along with the concept of redemption have enjoyed universal appeal in literature throughout history. These are the themes that affect us all, and Dennis Shields skillfully brings these to light in his book, God Went Fishing. His multiple characters undergo fascinating transformations as they veer from good when tempted by evil, then back to good if they shun evil and are redeemed.
Winston, one of the more ruthless individuals portrayed in the story, notes that, "The biggest problem in the world is what an American writer calls the erosion of will. People start off trying to be good and behaving well. They are faced with choices that seem necessary or expedient and not particularly unpalatable. The problem is that each poor choice eats away at one's basic decent desires until nothing of the will towards good is left at all and evil becomes an acceptable alternative."
The main character in God Went Fishing is Sigmund, an 18 year-old brimming promise and innocence and a falsely optimistic perception of life: that it's the best of all worlds in all situations. As he meets a multitude of characters on his journey of self-discovery, he finds that others use him constantly as he seeks only to serve.
Sigmund finds selfishness and evil at every corner. For example, his encounter with abortion-doctor, Laszlo, turns into a mind-boggling discussion of religious rights. Dr. Laszlo turns the medicine profession on its side, irreverently joking that, "The Lord giveth and I taketh away." He laughs off abortion, comparing it to being turned down by women: "Well, last night I was in a singles bar when three gals turned me down. By the religious right's definition, they all committed murder." Despite the fact that in order to become a doctor, one must vow to maintain the well-being of others and treat the profession with utmost care, Dr. Laszlo tosses all decency and integrity aside.
Conversely, it is possible to leave behind evil, and choose goodness-otherwise known as redemption. Irving, a ruthless gangster and friend of Sigmund, goes through a complete transformation; by the end of the book, he is kind and fearful, taking on many of Sigmund's noble characteristics.
One resonating point in God Went Fishing is that in order for good to be victorious, it is important for one to have a strong will. Bernie, Sigmund's mentor, states during their final meeting together, "Don't let your will erode and become me."
To be sure, Dennis Shields' God Went Fishing is as entertaining as it is philosophical. It will enlighten readers on many levels, revealing the depths to which we can sink, and the heights to which we can soar; it's all about the choices we make and the will we employ. The story itself is a must read and will have readers pouring over their own circumstances with a fresh, new light, and how they might choose good over evil on a daily basis.
Author Resource:-
Find out more about The Erosion of the Will by visiting http://godwentfishing.com.
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