Now and Then

Now and Then is Frederick Buechner's second memoir, chronicling his life from age twenty-seven to fifty-seven, with a focus on his spiritual and vocational journey. The narrative begins in 1953 with his conversion to Christianity and follows his path through seminary education, marriage, and eventual settlement in Vermont. The book traces Buechner's parallel development as both writer and minister, including his time at Union Theological Seminary and interactions with prominent theological figures of the era. His encounters during this period range from celebrated scholars like Reinhold Niebuhr and Paul Tillich to cultural figures such as Bernard Berenson and Alice B. Toklas. Buechner documents his transition from novelist to ordained minister, including his work at Phillips Exeter Academy where he established the school's first religion department. His account spans multiple relocations and career shifts as he navigates the intersection of literary and religious callings. At its core, Now and Then explores the relationship between faith and art, examining how religious conviction and creative expression can coexist and inform each other. The memoir stands as a reflection on vocation as both divine calling and personal discovery.

Readers consistently note Buechner's raw honesty and self-reflection in describing his early life experiences, particularly regarding his father's suicide. Many appreciate his poetic writing style and ability to find meaning in ordinary moments. Readers highlight: - Clear, precise prose that avoids self-pity - Insights about faith emerging from personal tragedy - Descriptions of 1920s/30s New York and Bermuda Common criticisms: - Narrative sometimes meanders - Some sections feel disconnected - Religious elements too subtle for readers seeking spiritual guidance Ratings: Goodreads: 4.1/5 (404 ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (32 ratings) "His ability to paint a scene with just a few careful brushstrokes is remarkable" - Goodreads reviewer "The memoir occasionally loses focus when describing peripheral characters" - Amazon reviewer "Buechner examines his past without judgment or defensiveness" - Christian Century review

The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton Chronicles Merton's journey from secular writer to Trappist monk, paralleling Buechner's path from novelist to minister.

The Sacred Journey by Dan Wakefield Traces a writer's spiritual awakening and return to faith while maintaining his literary career in New York City.

Surprised by Joy by C. S. Lewis Maps Lewis's intellectual and spiritual conversion from atheism to Christianity while pursuing his academic calling.

An American Childhood by Annie Dillard Explores the formation of a writer's consciousness through memory and reflection, depicting the intersection of spirituality and artistic development.

Dakota: A Spiritual Geography by Kathleen Norris Documents a poet's move to rural South Dakota and her simultaneous journey into contemplative spirituality and religious vocation.

🔸 Buechner's decision to attend seminary came after hearing a sermon by George Buttrick at Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church, marking a dramatic shift from his early career as a secular novelist. 🔸 At Union Theological Seminary, Buechner studied under Reinhold Niebuhr, one of the most influential theologians of the 20th century, who became a significant mentor in his spiritual journey. 🔸 His first novel, "A Long Day's Dying," was published when he was just 23 years old and received widespread critical acclaim, establishing him as a notable literary voice before his religious conversion. 🔸 During his three decades in Vermont, Buechner wrote many of his works in a converted toolshed that served as his writing studio, deliberately separating his creative space from his home life. 🔸 The title "Now and Then" references Augustine's concept of time in "Confessions," suggesting how past and present moments continuously inform and transform our understanding of life and faith.