Paper Summary:

This paper discusses the life and beliefs of the New Zealand poet James K. Baxter, who started out as an unbeliever, then became a member of the Anglican Church, and later became a Catholic. The writer discusses the question whether Baxter, who, in his poetry, lectures and in other actions, frequently criticized New Zealand society, especially the Puritan middle class, did so from a Catholic point of view or whether he invented his own version of Catholicism to sharpen his arguments. The changes in Baxter's life are described as his religious faith grew into an amalgam of his beliefs and opinions, and the writer explains how these are reflected in Baxter's poetry.

Outline:
Introduction
Religion in Baxter's Life
Clash of His Views With Those of the Puritan Middle Class
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"However, Baxter's conversion to Catholicism had a negative impact on his marriage. His wife Jacquie was disappointed that Baxter did not develop the way she had hoped when he quitted drinking. Instead of supporting her at home to a greater extent, he stayed very active in the Alcoholic Anonymous. Furthermore, he seemed to move away from the family in that he suddenly wanted to leave the Anglican Church which was closely connected to the family through various links (McKay 1992:157). Thus, his wife was shocked and felt that her husband had passed her over in not telling her about his thoughts and plans. As a result of the incidents during the previous months, Baxter moved out in October 1957."

Sample of Sources Used:

• Oliver, W.H., 1983. James K. Baxter. A Portrait by W.H. Oliver. Wellington: The Port Nicholson Press
• McKay, Frank, 1992. The life of James K. Baxter. Auckland: Oxford University Press
• Millar, Paul (ed.), 2001. New Selected Poems. James K. Baxter. Auckland: Oxford University Press. (the following poems: A Small Ode on Mixed Flatting; Autumn Testament; The Gunner's Lament; A Bucket of Blood for a Dollar; Ballad of Calvary Street)
• Weir, J. E., 1970. The Poetry of James K. Baxter. Wellington: Oxford University Press

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