Awaiting the Impossible

“Awaiting the Impossible is an engaging discussion of the philosophy of Jacques Derrida from the standpoint of the Christian faith. Through his rigorous and attentive study of the seminal works of the French thinker, Professor Tan has provided a penetrating analysis and critique of deconstruction. The book has much to contribute to the current discussion on the relationship between Derrida and religion and repays careful study.”


—Roland Chia, Trinity Theological College





“Awaiting the Impossible is a deep and charitable engagement with the work of Jacques Derrida. Seng Tan skillfully explores the religious undertones of Derrida’s project. Derrida waits for a messiah who never appears—who never can appear. The Christian story of a real, concrete Messiah who does come and who reveals God to finite creatures provides the hope that Derrida’s thought lacks. Followers of Derrida and thoughtful Christians will benefit greatly from this work of scholarship.”


—Gregory E. Ganssle, Talbot School of Theology