John Bunyan

"The Pilgrim's Progress from This World to That Which Is to Come," written by John Bunyan in the late 17th century, is an allegorical novel that follows the journey of a character named Christian, who represents all of humanity. Christian embarks on a spiritual quest from the "City of Destruction" to the "Celestial City," seeking salvation and enlightenment through various trials and challenges.

At the beginning of the story, Christian is depicted as bearing a heavy burden and grappling with existential despair. After reading a troubling book that reveals his doomed state, he becomes increasingly distressed, ultimately crying out for salvation. His path soon intersects with the character Evangelist, who directs him to the wicket gate as a way to escape his dire fate.

Throughout his journey, Christian faces the temptation to succumb to worldly advice and the folly of straying from his divine purpose. This underscores themes of faith, redemption, and the challenges encountered on the path to spiritual truth.