An Apology for Autumn by David Turrill

1. Jim Gudsen tells us about his brother's 'apology for autumn' and his own affection for the season. Autumn is a constant motif throughout the novel. How many instances of this recurring metaphor can be found? Be sure to look for the motif, as well, in its seasonal counterparts and in the quotations prefacing the work.

2. An apology can be both an expression of regret and a spirited defense of an idea, often religious in nature. Which do you think the title is referencing? Is it one, both, or could there even be a third definition that applies?

3. 'The plot thickens' is an old expression often used in banal and inane situations. In literature of course, the plot consists of a sequence of events, beginning with the inciting incident, which leads the reader to the climax. Identify the inciting incident, the major events of plot development, and the climax in this novel.

4. At the conclusion of the novel, Turrill quotes both C.S. Lewis, (the foremost Christian apologist of the modern era) and Joseph Campbell, (the brilliant authority on myth and its ecumenical role in the development of the world's great religions). Why do you think the author chose them? Read the quotations carefully and discuss.

5. Read a short narrative describing the myth of the Labors of Hercules. The author uses this myth to, in effect, start a new religion. Why? Keep in mind this maxim from the Roman philosopher Sallust: "Myth never happened, but always is." (Note: Hercules and Herkimer are intentionally similar names.)

6. The novel opens with many instances of Herkimer's 'piercings'. Later in the book, he is fatally stabbed, but miraculously recovers. These allusions to crucifixion are a part of the age-old idea of a God-sent hero chosen to suffer for the reclamation of others. How does Herkimer Gudsen fit this redemptive image? Besides the physical suffering, what other characteristics make him a messianic figure?

7. In the denouement, the 'wrapping up' of the story after the climax, James and Dr. Mantus are sitting in the former's home and James's grandson is watching the Disney animated film, Hercules. Dr. Mantus comments: "So it goes on." What does he mean by this? A few paragraphs later, the book ends with the description of the moth and the sparkler. How does this relate to the previous incident?

8. Much of the novel has to do with judgment. There is a great deal of traditionally forbidden behavior in this narrative. Rhea Theomastix murders her parents. Charlie, Rhea and Rusha are all victims of child abuse. James has an incestuous lust for both his sister and sister-in-law. Dr. Mantus contemplates suicide and Cornelius Bird commits it. Robin Stym and Baxter Bird defy religious convention and authority for the sake of their love for one another. Larry Ladon carries on a long, adulterous affair and Jim has many pre-marital trysts, including one with his future spouse, Minnie, (herself a victim of spousal abuse). Rusha, Teena and Maddy are all former strippers. In spite of this unconventional behavior, the reader feels an innate empathy with many of these characters. Why? Is it because we understand human weakness since we experience it ourselves? Or do we need to reevaluate some of the conventions that promote judgment and condemnation?

9. In the original myth, Hercules must perform the Twelve Labors because, in a fit of rage and madness, he killed his own family. Herkimer must 'Gather the Twelve' in order to save his. How does this apparent paradox promote the thematic idea of redemption?

10. Every writer is obviously influenced by the culture in which he was raised. This work obviously comes out of the Judeo-Christian experience. The 'Gathering of the Twelve' is reminiscent of Jesus Christ's recruitment of the twelve apostles as well as the older story of the Twelve Tribes of Israel. Herkimer's confrontation with the Board of Elders is an allusion to Jesus's criticism of the law-oriented Pharisees. Herk's virgin birth, the resurrection of Meg, Rusha's Magdalen figure, etc., all contribute to this influence. Still, this novel promotes a sense of ecumenicalism, the idea that God cherishes all of humanity. In what ways does Turrill advance this perception, as James Gudsen puts it, of a 'large God'?