Elliot Kessler

“The Chronicles of Narnia” is a bestselling, classic children’s fantasy series by author C. S. Lewis. One of the most discussed things about the series is its biblical parallels. The lion called Aslan is God in these books. He created the world of Narnia with his voice, died for the betrayal of one of the characters, so the character no longer owes the villain of that book his life, and he guides the protagonists through their adventures, sending them to do difficult quests to save the people of his world.

Most of Lewis’ work has many biblical and spiritual themes and parallels, such as his space trilogy, beginning with “Out of the Silent Planet,” and “The Great Divorce,” which is simply a bus ride through Heaven and Hell. But Lewis isn’t the only one to do this.

Long before Lewis, John Bunyan published the novel “The Pilgrim’s Progress,” an allegory for living as a Christian and how it should look. Today, we have sci-fi author Ted Chiang, an atheist whose interest in the Bible has led him to write stories such as “Tower of Babylon” and “Hell is the Absence of God.”

These are but a handful of examples. Many more authors, Christian or otherwise, use biblical theology and themes in their stories. I do that as well. I typically use Proverbs I’ve read that I relate to as themes for my stories. I take biblical principles and lessons that I have learned through reading the Bible and translate them into narratives.

There are many interesting stories, wisdom, and philosophy in the Bible, which is all very interesting. I think everyone should read at least one book in the Bible once, atheist or not. It is a goldmine of inspiration for authors, especially in the sci-fi and fantasy genres. I think authors are tossing it out like it’s nothing when they should be utilizing it for their advantage. If you want something to think about that will lead to an interesting story with an interesting discussion, look no further than the Bible. (Although, if you have an interesting experience or perspective on life, it’s probably better to write about that, seeing as only you can write that story. It’s unique to you. Hence the rule “Write what you know.”)

I haven’t discussed my personal beliefs and experiences on this blog much, but I thought I would start doing that and being more authentic with you. I am a Christian, and I am working to become stronger in my faith. I am not a good person and hope to change that. As I have mentioned many times, I am working on my second novel. I am doing my best to remember that I am not writing it to get fame or attention. I mean, being a lonely person, having many people paying attention to me sounds great. But that should not be the reason for writing this novel. It cannot be the reason for what I’m doing. I have to write to serve you. I have to remember that this novel is not to make people think I’m a great, smart, amazing person who has everything figured out. This novel is for those with addictions, insecurities, and weaknesses that they cannot seem to fix or get past. This novel is to let you guys know that you are not alone. I’ve been there. I am there. I know what it’s like, and I want to discuss it with you. I’m here for you. I have been trying to read my Bible more often; every time I do, it reminds me of why I write. I don’t write to serve myself, make money, or be famous. I write for God. I am writing for you.

Thank you for reading. Have a fantastic day.