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That Distant Land (1965) by Wendell Berry

28 September 2006 "That Distant Land , by Wendell Berry

Introduction

In the classic tradition of literature , there are works that are as compelling for their literal content as they are for their symbolism and metaphor , providing entertainment and delight , as well as enlightenment for the reader . In this essay , one of these works , the story That Distant Land , by Wendell Berry , will be discussed from these viewpoints , with a particular slant toward the of vocations . Upon completion of this essay , a higher level understanding of this respected author and his compelling

works will be reached

Literal Interpretations of the Work

If a higher level discussion of Berry 's story is to be facilitated , an interpretation , albeit brief , of the story must be presented . In the story , the distant land ' is that of those who came before and the life that they led , bravely enduring the trials and tribulations of life , which has indirectly made the comfortable modern life that people lead today possible . The distance referred to in the title of the story itself is a literal , chronological , and ideological one the action of the story took place many years ago , in a place far away , but perhaps most importantly , the mindset and values that existed in that time frame in some cases are millions of ideological miles away from where many modern people find themselves . Because of this , it is incumbent upon the modern reader to look beyond the actual words of the text and become more introspective , considering instead the symbolism that Wendell Berry intended in writing the work . It is with this symbolism in mind that a more in-depth look at the inner meaning of the story , and particularly how it relates to vocations , can be presented so that a full comprehension and appreciation of the literature is possible

Metaphor in the Story as it Relates to Vocations

That Distant Land ' is much more than a story , an historic encapsulation , or merely an excellent work of literature- it is a metaphor for many of the underpinnings of civilized society and the blueprint for the efficient evolution of human interaction . The characterization that Berry uses in his story represents people who are mannerly , considerate and kind actually , these are the kind of people that most wish they knew-or that they themselves could become . The environment in which they live itself seems licated and pure-again something that most people today long for . Interpersonally , the people make an exceptional effort to show respect and kindness which is also quite admirable

For all of the positive attributes that Berry portrays , its relation to vocations is interesting to consider to put it simply in one word , it would best be described as tradition . To expand upon this assertion what is meant by tradition is that the characters and setting of That Distant Land ' set standards and create a history that the generations to come later-specifically , perhaps , Berry 's readers , establish a code of morals and traditions that have the power to...

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