This is very relevant when comparing how various characters react to the miracles. Reuben, the most dead set on the existence of the miracles, says that, “Real miracles bother people” (3). This shows that he brushes off the common and light use of the word miracle. This closely aligns with the real etymology of the word, a 12th century french word meaning “a wondrous work of god” (Harper). Reuben’s much more serious use of the word miracle shows that Enger intends to portray him as wise even though he is young. On the other hand, Enger also attempts to add doubt to Reuben’s recollection of the miracles with Reuben’s saying, “Make of that what you will” (48). Reubens personal recollection of the miracles is completely undoubting and convinced that they occurred the way he remembers
This is very relevant when comparing how various characters react to the miracles. Reuben, the most dead set on the existence of the miracles, says that, “Real miracles bother people” (3). This shows that he brushes off the common and light use of the word miracle. This closely aligns with the real etymology of the word, a 12th century french word meaning “a wondrous work of god” (Harper). Reuben’s much more serious use of the word miracle shows that Enger intends to portray him as wise even though he is young. On the other hand, Enger also attempts to add doubt to Reuben’s recollection of the miracles with Reuben’s saying, “Make of that what you will” (48). Reubens personal recollection of the miracles is completely undoubting and convinced that they occurred the way he remembers