As noted in class, Flannery O'Connor's Catholic faith dominates her writing style. Clearly demonstrated in "The Life You Save May Be Your Own," O'Connor reveals interesting parallels between Tom Shiftlet as an untraditional Christ figure in this notable short story.
The symbolism illustrated through Shiftlet becomes evident upon his entrance in the story. The description of Tom T. Shiftlet alludes superficially to Jesus. Before saying anything to Mrs. Crater, he swings "both his whole and his short arm up slowly so that they indicated an expanse of sky and his figure formed a crooked cross" (48). Shiftlet makes a visual reference to Christ by extending his arms. His modified representation of Christ's crucifixion indicates that he does not resemble Christ directly. His partial left arm signifies that he lacks at least part of his spirituality. …
