Belief Initiates and guides action-- Or it does nothing.
Parable of the Sower, p. 47
Discussion questions
The book's title, Parable of the Sower, is taken from a passage in the New Testament. What is the relevance of the Biblical parable to the book, literally and symbolically? Why do you believe Butler chose it as the title for her work?
Is Earthseed a religion or a philosophy? What distinguishes the two? How do you believe Lauren would answer the question?
The book unfolds through Lauren's journal entries. How does this narrative choice shape and effect the novel? What indication do Lauren's entries offer of her character, her aptitude as a leader, and the foundations of Earthseed?
How is organized religion portrayed in the novel? What does Butler seem to believe is the role or ability of religion to shape and give purpose to life?
One key belief of Earthseed is that "God is Change." Is God treated in the novel as a self-aware entity, or a complex dynamic concept? What do you believe? Can the two interpretations co-exist?
