I can't believe that I've enjoyed ALL of the short stories I've read by Hawthorne! I feel similar when reading Thomas Hardy (hate his prose, love his poetry).

**SPOILERS**

The parallel between himself and Moses encountering God is clear and an interesting experiment. I expected something more like Picture of Dorian Gray. This was more direct––and I liked it.

Hawthorne can build anticipation well.

I liked the abrupt ending. At first I wondered why he skipped so much of the Minister's life, but the extra details aren't needed--we know (or have an idea) what he endured.

Comparisons: something by Hemingway?