Religion's Influence on Contemporary Literature

At the Edinburgh Festival, acclaimed novelist Sarah Perry, known for her work "The Essex Serpent," highlighted a notable shift in contemporary literature regarding the portrayal of religion. Perry remarked that God is increasingly being recognized as a respectable element within mainstream culture, a departure from previous trends where religious themes were often sidelined. She noted that this change reflects a broader cultural evolution, suggesting that society is becoming more receptive to discussions of faith. Perry, who was introduced to the principles of Calvinism at a young age, expressed gratitude for the creative freedom her publishers have afforded her to explore religious themes in her writing. She believes that the resurgence of interest in religion in literature can be partly attributed to the influence of contemporary authors like Francis Spufford, who has passionately defended Christianity, and poet Seán Hewitt, who also engages with spiritual themes in his work. This renewed openness to religion extends beyond literature, as evidenced by a recent 5 percent increase in church attendance within the Church of England, marking a significant turnaround after years of decline. This trend suggests that the public's interest in spirituality and religious practices is on the rise, indicating a potential cultural renaissance in how faith is perceived and discussed in society. As literature and public engagement with religion evolve, it appears that the dialogue surrounding faith is becoming more prominent, reflecting a changing landscape in both artistic expression and community values.