Apologia Background: An apology is an argument that explains why a particular line of reasoning is logical and/or justified. It comes from the Greek apo “send/away” and logos “word.” In an apology, you are sending a word about why you are right. An apology is often thought of as a defense or justification. It is not uncommon to use analogies as part of an apology. When analogy becomes the basis for a story’s structure, you get an allegory. In an allegory, you have an intentional set of corresponding metaphors that work together to present a cohesive story with a deeper meaning. Allegories are not easy to create, but done well they are truly effective. For example, think about Christian in the Slough of Despond. THIS Christian intentionally walks toward the light but falls into the slough of Despond and sinks into the mire because of the weight of his burden. He comes across it only as he walks toward the light. It takes Help to reach in and pull Christian out and send him in his way. EQUALS THAT Believers start out well but encounter = doubt about their ability to make it once the truth shines on their depravity and they see just how sinful they are. They experience a sinking feeling that halts their certainty, clouding their sense of direction. They can’t escape this without someone lifting them out. Assignment: Write a one-page allegory of a specific aspect of life. Make sure there are at least four specific elements of metaphor (this=that) that create one main analogy.