According to Merriam-Webster an epigraph is “a quotation set at the beginning of a literary work or one of its divisions to suggest its theme.” If William P. Young felt it necessary to use these quotes at the beginning of the chapters, it suggests that he has read a reasonable amount of the author’s work and consequently knowing a little about the source of the epigraphs will improve the reader’s understanding of Young’s book The Shack.
Chapter 16 – A Morning of Sorrows
“An infinite God can give all of Himself to each of His children. He does not distribute Himself that each may have a part, but to each one He gives all of Himself as fully as if there were no others.” A.W. Tozer
A.W. Tozer was a famous evangelist. He and his wife were dedicated to a life of simplicity and forsook material wealth. His work focused on the need for every person to draw closer to God and have a deeper and more personal relationship with him. Tozer also believed that prayer was vitally important to the health of a believer’s faith.
According to James L. Snyder who wrote a biography about Tozer, In Pursuit of God: The Life Of A.W. Tozer, His preaching as well as his writings were but extensions of his prayer life."
Chapter 17 – Choices of the Heart
“Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal.” Author Unknown
If a reader is honest with himself, he will realize that this quote is only suitable for a greeting card.
Chapter 18 – Outbound Ripples
“Faith never knows where it is being led, But it knows and loves the One who is leading.” Oswald Chambers
Oswald Chambers was a devout evangelist who worked tirelessly throughout his short life to lead people to God. He wrote extensively about the faith required to live a life that is completely sold out to God and trusts God when human logic and wisdom says it is foolish. He died in his forties while serving as a chaplain during WWI. His wife, Gertrude Hobbs Chambers, transcribed his letters and lectures into the books that they are recognized in today. His most famous work is a series of devotionals that his wife compiled titled, My Utmost for His Highest.
Read more about William P. Young and his book The Shack at Suite101. Make sure to read about all the epigraphs used in the novel because they reveal a great deal about William P. Young and probably a great deal about his inspiration.
Melissa Howard - I am a stay-at-home Mom. My college education was in English and History and my last job was as a Technical Writer. Now that I ...
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