Poetry · Chapter
A Controversialist explained
The narrator reflects on the controversial figure Ingersoll and the absurdity of debating God's existence when figures like Bartlett exist, suggesting that Bartlett himself is a hell wherever he goes.
What happens
The narrator reflects on the controversial figure Ingersoll and the absurdity of debating God's existence when figures like Bartlett exist, suggesting that Bartlett himself is a hell wherever he goes.
Themes in this chapter
Hypocrisy and Corruption
The narrator critiques the hypocrisy of pious figures who attack Ingersoll while ignoring the existence of someone like Bartlett.
Deception and Self-Deception
The narrator questions the logic of those who believe in a just God while tolerating a corrupt individual like Bartlett.
Characters to notice
- Bill Bartlett
Mentioned as a pious dunce from the Bulletin who replies to Ingersoll's arguments.
Key passages
“I’ve sometimes wished that Ingersoll were wise To hold his tongue, nor rail against the skies; For when he’s made a point some pious dunce Like Bartlett of the Bulletin “replies.””
The narrator wishes Ingersoll would stop criticizing religion, because every time he makes a valid point, a hypocrite like Bartlett responds.
Highlights the futility of debate when met with ignorant opposition.
“But when they say there is a God I ask Why Bartlett, then, is suffered to exist.”
The narrator questions how believers can claim a benevolent God exists while allowing someone like Bartlett to live.
A satirical argument against theodicy.
“Even infidels that logic might resent, Saying: “There’s no place for his punishment That’s worse than earth.” But humbly I submit That he’s himself a hell wherever sent.”
Even atheists might object to the logic that Bartlett's punishment couldn't be worse than earth, but the narrator argues that Bartlett is a hell in himself no matter where he goes.
A darkly humorous conclusion about Bartlett's inherent corruption.