This summer, the autobiography of Mark Twain will be released, 100 years after his death. An icon of American literature, Twain is renowned for his wit and for his keen observations on human culture. Why such a long wait for his autobiography? In a word: fear.
Reports indicate that Twain reveals some very personal opinions in this book; among them is his disgust for organized religion, especially Christianity, condemning its hypocrisy and declaring that it has done far more damage than good over the centuries. Understanding American society and the likely impact that these convictions might have on his success as an author, Mark Twain stipulated that his autobiography not be published until 100 years after his death. By then, he must have thought, American society would be more sophisticated, capable of respecting the varied beliefs and convictions of its citizens without imposing sanctions or triggering retribution. Unfortunately, on this point, Twain was mistaken.
A century after Mark Twain's death, one cannot openly challenge the authority of religious doctrine without being ostracized. Politicians are especially aware of this fact, declaring their piety at every opportunity and wearing their religion on their sleeves; if there is one trait that will insure defeat in American elections, it is the badge of atheism. I suspect that Mark Twain book burnings will soon commence and that Hannibal, Missouri, will no longer host any Baptist conventions. Christian schools will pull his books from their curriculum and, in the eyes of many, the image of this renowned humorist will lose its luster.
