Dear Everyone,
As I mentioned previously, art plays a very important role in my novel, “Gabriel’s Inferno.” Without posting spoilers, I’ll simply point out that sometimes the mention of a particular painting carries with it either a back story or an element of foreshadowing.
There is a scene, for example, in which I mention Rembrandt’s The Return of the Prodigal Son. Rembrandt’s painting illustrates a story from the Bible – Jesus’ parable of the Prodigal Son, which is told in the Gospel according to St. Luke 15:11-32. There are at least two interpretations of the parable. In the most common reading, the focus is on the Prodigal, himself, and how he wastes his inheritance indulging in sin until he is humbled completely. When he returns to his father, his father welcomes him and forgives him. The second reading focuses on the Prodigal’s brother, the son of constancy. While the Prodigal is wasting his inheritance on prostitutes and indulging (no doubt) in all seven deadly sins, the son of constancy is working faithfully on his father’s farm. His reaction to the Prodigal’s return is less than warm. The story closes with his father’s admonishment to join in the rejoicing over the Prodigal’s return and not to demand rough treatment for the brother, who no doubt justly deserves it.
The parable is short but powerful and it provides a twin message for all human beings, regardless of religion: the message of forgiveness for those who seek it and the message of mercy for those who need to do the forgiving. Yes, the son of constancy’s impulse was toward justice – the just punishment of his brother’s moral failings. But it is the impulse of the father – forgiveness and mercy – that is praised in the story. Sometimes it is better to forego justice for mercy, even though such a choice is inherently difficult.
Rembrandt captures a key moment from the parable and although the painting is static, it vibrates with emotion. He doesn’t retell the story frame by frame. He chooses a single instant, but in so doing he tells you what he thinks is important in the parable.
A writer can do the same thing by including art in a novel. The artwork doesn’t have to retell the story, it only has to highlight a key message or moment. Once again, I’ll allow the readers to decide for themselves what those moments are.
The response to the release of my book has been overwhelming. Thank you. And thank you to those who are sharing the story with friends and family. I treasure book recommendations from friends and so I’m honoured that you would recommend my book to others.
All the best and thanks for reading,
SR
Some of the readers over on Goodreads have begun a discussion group for “Gabriel’s Inferno.” Anyone can join, at any time.
I am honoured to have had all three of my novels appear on the New York Times and USA Today Bestseller lists. I was a Semifinalist for Best Author in the 2011 and 2012 Goodreads Choice Awards. {
Rembrandt’s painting shows the father as emerging from the shadows to embrace his long-lost son. This suggests that the father’s pain and loss were as great as that experienced by his wayward child. The reunion provides the spiritual rejuvenation that comes from forgiveness, whether you are the forgiver or the forgiven.
It’s also interesting that the other figures remain in shadow except for the man on the right. Is the son who objected most strongly to the prodigal’s return? His scowl is clearly visible. The expressions of the other two men are less discernible.
I think both Gabriel and Richard were similarly unburdened once Gabriel found his own way home. When he returns for Thanksgiving with Julia, we see that he and Richard have a very good relationship. It isn’t always easy, but there is forgiveness and love – even respect.
Scott needs to learn a few things about humility, but I’m sure his father started that lesson. 🙂
Serendipitous/MelleurCafe
Hello Miss Serendipitous,
Thanks for this. You make a great point about the shadows in Rembrandt’s painting. One of my favourite things about Rembrandt is the way he uses light to show you what’s important, while lesser images fade into shadow.
I also liked what you said about the father in the painting. I think his physical posture is significant, as well.
Thanks for reading and for your comment!
All best, SR
That painting is quite emotional to look at. You can’t help but wonder (if you don’t already know the story) “what has happened here?” I love paintings, there is no limit to the story they can tell and how in depth they can be. Thank you for sharing this.