Topic: Theology and Johnny Cash
I’ve been toying with the outlandish idea that perhaps two great loves in my life may find an unlikely union. A few circumstances have led me to reflect on the possibility of engaging the theological critique of the secular with works of Johnny Cash (JC). Perhaps this is simply the imposition of my will but I think there may be something to an artist who so rigorously and consistently offered a life and vision which did not conform to the established parameters of sacred and secular.
The theological critique of the secular (via John Milbank and Stanley Hauerwas) basically tries to expose western society’s attempt to bracket religion as a part of society which politics and economics seek to maintain control of. The critique follows that this stance presents the myth of neutrality, that there is a neutral public space in which all religions may have freedom. However, these religions can only have expression within the parameters enforced by the state.
Put in this way, it is not a huge step to begin to consider the work of a man who has crossed innumerable boundaries with the basic concept of ‘We are sinful and God is judge and redeemer’. This coloured everything. It was not a private or a civil religion, it was reality.
I do not want think that JC’s work is a cure-all for the ills of society (I certainly have questions about his politics). However, it is likely not an unfruitful exploration. Let me know your thoughts. I will keep posting on it as it comes to me.