Introduction: A Poetics of Forgiveness

Abstract

We need only pick up a newspaper or listen to the news to be reminded that violent conflicts rage around the globe—the mere mention of Iraq, Afghanistan, Darfur, Tibet, and Palestine conjures up horrific images of death and destruction. Unfortunately, clashes in our interpersonal relationships are just as common, ranging from petty strife between coworkers to disturbing cases of abuse. Some people throw up their hands and conclude that humans are at base cruel and vindictive and nothing can be done. Others will naïvely hope for world peace or fairytale reunions. But one thing seems clear: Given the level of political and interpersonal conflict in our world, there is an urgent need for discussions of forgiveness and reconciliation.¹

If you can fill the unforgiving minute With sixty seconds’ worth of distance run, Yours is the Earth and everything that’s in it.

—Rudyard Kipling