2 of 2

Wright: "There is no such thing as 'neutral' or 'objective' proof; only the claim that the story we are now telling about the world as a whole makes more sense, in its outline and detail, than other potential or actual stories that may be on offer. Simplicity of outline, elegance in handling the details within it, the inclusion of all the parts of the story, and the ability of the story to make sense beyond its immediate subject-matter: these are what count."

We need to write better novels, better plays, better journal articles, paint better pictures, film better movies, sing better songs and through this all, tell better stories that include an authentic connection with those who do not see the world the way we do.

Perhaps the best defense against the deception of The Da Vinci Code is not merely books explaining each factual error of Brown's delusion with intellectual precision, but more powerful all-encompassing stories that capture the imagination like The Passion of the Christ, the Lord of the Rings trilogy, The Chronicles of Narnia, and The Exorcism of Emily Rose.

By telling more of those kinds of stories with excellence—whether in print or on film—we'll capture the attention of a seeking public, simple as that. No code-busting needed at all.

Brian Godawa is the award-winning screenwriter of the movies To End All Wars and The Visitation , as well as creator of a satirical film, The Conspiracy Game, which he calls a "humorous but pointed response to the absurdities" of The Da Vinci Code.

© Brian Godawa 2006, subject to licensing agreement with Christianity Today International. All rights reserved. Click for reprint information.

first page |  2 of 2