For some time, the Society of Biblical Literature has included a section at its annual sessions in which an older member reflects on how her or his thinking has evolved over the years under the title "How My Mind has Changed and Remained the Same." Now that I am officially eligible to retire (although I do not intend to do so anytime soon), I have been emboldened to use this genre to express some thoughts on biblical interpretation.
The argument that texts should be approached carefully using a variety of exegetical tools reminded me of the wisdom from one of my favorite theologians, Emily Dickenson, who advised that 'truth must dazzle gradually or every man be blind."
Tell all the Truth but let it slant-
Success in Circuit lies
Too bright for our infirm Delight
The Truth’s superb Surprise
As Lightning to the Children eased
With explanation kind
The Truth must dazzle gradually
Or every man be blind-