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Hi Paul, thanks for another thought-inspiring and instructive article.
There is definitely an underlying feeling of 'marriage' between Clough and Taylor: not about sexual love, but long term commitment to someone ; boosting and developing your partner's skills; promoting and building up, encouraging them to speak and act more confidently and, of course, getting personal pleasure from seeing/hearing your partner blossom and grow and do well (and knowing you are, in some part, involved in their achievements).
It is notable that Taylor was a 'man of his word', and it is Clough, the one who didn't honour his word, who had to get down on bended knee and apologise. We could all do with learning that important lesson!
Also, there is always an effort involved in putting things right. Clough had to, 'make his way to the south coast to humble himself'.
Once there, Clough, 'finds (Taylor) working in his front garden'. Taylor was free to carry on with life and work, while Clough had to spend time travelling and, no doubt, spend time preparing his imminent apology.
Taylor then shows his human weakness by insisting that Clough humiliates himself. That's a shame, but also ascertains Clough's sincerity: if his apology wasn’t sincere, he would, at this point, get in his car and head back North, without putting things right.
I am, like yourself, 'left with the feeling that this is how friendships should be'.
So, a great analogy between Clough and Taylor's friendship and marriage, and, of course, our relationship with Christ (the 'bride' church and Jesus 'the groom').
Great article, Paul. Thanks |
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