Being now several years old and also a translation from another language, the writing from Silence is not in the style that most of us are used to. I found the emotional descriptions somewhat lacking and had to fill in a great deal using my own imagination. I simply didn't feel the anguish as much as I believe was necessary to fully appreciate this book. That said, I did enjoy the book and it is certainly not without its merits. I can't say anything more about this story than Martin Scorsese has already said in his introduction.

As a postulant to the priesthood myself, this story did make me consider the ease with which I live my life of faith and if I would be so bold if I lived in a time and place of great persecution. Would I be a Ferreira and apostatize to save others? Would I be Garrpe and martyr myself to attempt in vain save others? Would Ferreira have done as Garrpe if given the choice? How much are our choices and our faith lives determined by our context in time and space?

There are no true answers to these questions concerning myself. What an intriguing thing to ponder. I am very glad I read this book.