Implicit vs. Explicit

Here are some thoughts inspired by my reflection on the Gospels, particularly the difference between the Synoptics and John. The Synoptics seem to put you in the story and leave you, to some degree, to figure out its meaning, whereas John is far more theologically reflective and didactic. Note: my use of the terms "implicit" and "explicit" is overly absolute. Both John and the Synoptics are on the "implicit" side of this, and most of our texts today are "explicit."

An implicit text, such as the Synoptics, is often more versatile and effective as a teaching tool, as the reader must interact more directly with the material and think for himself. The writer's explicit judgments and values in an explicit text may clarify the subject for the moment, but will inevitably present and obstacle to the future reader who does not share the immediate context of the writer. Thus, an implicit text can be more challenging, as well as "timeless."

An explicit text, of the sort we favor in our post-Enlightenment era, makes a good introduction to a subject, or a good corrective to an erroneous understanding of a prior implicit text.