The Seeker

"The Seeker" by Harry Leon Wilson explores the spiritual and emotional development of two young brothers, Bernal and Allan Linford, who are raised by their grandfather, Reverend Allan Delcher, in a large, imposing house filled with religious fervor. The narrative unfolds in a small village where the boys are introduced to the strict Presbyterian beliefs of their grandfather and the nurturing yet firm guidance of Clytemnestra, the housekeeper. The story delves into the boys' experiences with religious teachings, their interpretations of biblical stories, and their struggles with the concept of faith. Bernal, the younger brother, is particularly imaginative and often questions the religious doctrines presented to him, while Allan, the elder, shows a more straightforward acceptance of their grandfather's teachings. The novel paints a vivid picture of the boys' internal conflicts and their attempts to reconcile their natural curiosity and innocence with the rigid expectations of their religious upbringing. Through their interactions with family, neighbors, and the community, the boys navigate the complexities of belief, doubt, and the search for personal truth.