I've read bits and pieces of the Bible before, but never the whole thing, straight through from Genesis to Revelation. So that's what I do for four weeks, five hours a day. As I read, I type into my PowerBook every rule, every guideline, every suggestion, every nugget of advice I find. When I finish, I have a very long list. It runs to 72 pages.

I have chosen September 1 to start my project and, from the moment I wake up, the Bible consumes my life. I can't do anything without fearing I'm breaking a biblical law. It begins when I open my closet to get dressed. The Bible forbids men to wear women's clothing (Deuteronomy 22:5), so that comfortable college sweatshirt is off limits. It was once my wife's.