Critiquing Critiquers of Criticism . . .

Responsible interpretation requires criticism of bad interpretations, even if we finally forgive the interpreters, however difficult it may be at times to establish criteria for such interpretations. . . .

At the same time, Ellen Charry rightly points out that self-criticism is especially important for apocalyptic thinkers. I would add that self-criticism is important as well for interpreters of apocalyptic thinkers (such as commentators on Revelation) and for interpreters of interpreters of apocalyptic thinkers (such as historians of Revelation's reception).

–Michael J. Gorman, "What Has the Spirit Been Saying? Theological and Hermeneutical Reflections on the Reception/Impact History of the Book of Revelation," in Revelation and the Politics of Apocalyptic Interpretation, 22.