An obvious key theme in Stedman’s text is not only religion but religious experiences and beliefs. Stedman shares his story of how he got to where he his today spiritually. Throughout the text Stedman is discussing religious terms and how those make him feel. “The next day I attended my weekly religion class at Loyola University’s institute of Pastoral Studies, a Jesuit Catholic-run program for priests, nuns and lay leaders. (Stedman 12) Another example of Stedman referring to religious terms would be when he is referencing all the different non religious groups. “I imagined secular folks would be difficult to organize; assembling atheist, agnostics, skeptics, freethinkers and other non religious individuals.” (Stedman 3) Overall Stedman has many themes throughout the text I just believe this is the most prevalent.
A literary technique Stedman uses is relating to the reader. The voice he uses in writing is so personable and easy to relate to. “But I had always hoped that someone might offer a more balanced perspective on religion, locating within the beliefs, desires and actions of religious people similar values held by many nonreligious people.” Here we see a prime example of how Stedman is trying to relate to the readers with his beliefs. I feel allot of people are in the same boat here as Stedman so it is definitely interesting to see this. Overall Stedman uses a very unique writing method in his text, it is effective and pleasant to read as well. I believe Stedman’s point of view is very relate able across the board.