Religion is an essential part of Black's life in The Sunset Limited, and plays no part in White's life, whatsoever. In trying to convince White not to kill himself, Black frequently couches his arguments in religious language, talking about Jesus and the Bible.
Importantly, Black has a slightly different way of viewing these things from orthodox Christians. For instance, he doesn't just believe that God became a man in Jesus, but that Jesus is, in a higher sense, every human being. This gives urgency to his idea that people need to love and care for one another. White doesn't believe this, though, and is a nihilist (someone with no beliefs), so he doesn't want to help or play that kind of role. You might say he clings to his nihilistic ways with religious fervor.
Questions About Religion
- Why does Black say he doesn't believe in original sin? Although he's suffered so much and seen so many bad things, he still believes in the fundamental goodness of people. How come? Find evidence in the text.
- Is White completely convinced of the falsity of religion, as he claims? Or is there a chance he might be angry with a God he half-senses as a reality? Turn to the text for support.
- Does the play reach any conclusions about religion? Does it side with White or Black, or is its final position more complicated than taking sides?
- What do you think about Black's claim that he's heard the voice of God? If you heard this voice, or something like it, and it seemed to make sense, would you check yourself into a mental hospital or listen to the voice?
Chew on This
White might think he's above religion, but he clings to his belief in the purposelessness of life so fiercely that it might as well be a religion.
Whereas White's beliefs majorly get him down, Black's religion only picks him up.