Before I go too far with my book, I must answer these question. Do I want to include references? And to what extent?
As a work of non-fiction, it's sometimes useful to show references to identify where certain ideas/facts come from. But too many references, and it begins to read like a scholarly paper. Plus it takes a long time to collect all the details and format each reference, and is by far my least favorite part of doing any kind of research.
I see my book as an informal narrative, seeking to casually discuss different religious ideas. By no means is it meant to be a rigorous analysis or a ironclad, irrefutable proof of my church's veracity (something, by the way, that I'll later prove to be impossible). Thus, I will not bog down my book with all kinds of footnotes and distracting pinpoint references. On the other hand, I can't just give you all nothing. I have to at least give credit where it's due, and leave bread crumbs for some parts you may wish to verify on your own.
I think the best compromise would be for me to provide informal references. I'll always give scripture verses when applicable. But every now and then, I may parenthetically reference someone else's work where you can go to get more information. And hopefully they will not get in the way of the discussion.
Some books reference themselves.
ReplyDeleteI was thinking that I can compile a book (book one) that lists all books that reference themselves.
And a second book (book two) that lists books that don't reference themselves.
I can even list book one within book one.
But where do I list book two?
Heh, we'll have to ask our friend Mr. Russell!
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