Well, I finally finished The Narnian: The Life and Imagination of C. S. Lewis. I posted earlier about how I was inspired to choose the domain name philomyth.us for this blog from this book and the thoughts and ideas that spoke to me.
I am really encouraged to learn more about Lewis, the author and apologist, especially having read so many of his books, both fiction and apologetic. And it is interesting and even important to learn about the man behind the writings. The book did a good job of clearing up and explaining some of the things that I had heard about Lewis but didn’t have any reference or confirmation (i.e. why does everyone call him Jack).
One thing that reading this book has opened my eyes to is my previous limited assumption that apologetics (aka, ‘the truth’) was very literal and complete. Reading about Lewis’ life and his own personal struggles helped to put the truth and the apologist in living context. This has caused me to have an improved realization and appreciation for that which I do not know and understand, particularly in how big and great my God is, truly greater than my limited understanding. Not only does it put me in my place, it helps me to see myself in God’s context.
Now that I have read this book and gained a more accurate and complete picture of Lewis’ life, I want to read Lewis’ own account of how he became a Christian in Surprised by Joy: The Shape of My Early Life. And, how later in life, Lewis marries Joy Davidman, who becomes the true joy and love of his life. I would like to hear Lewis’ own thoughts and feelings about his experiences throughout. Some insight into truth encountering the wonder and mystery of love. (Of course, no commentary or reference to any mushy romantic stuff, please.)
[...] I enjoyed reading through the Chronicles again and this time as an adult. I think I also had additional insight after having read The Narnian as to what Lewis had gone through in his life and what he was going through as he wrote the Chronicles. They really are great stories, and I can’t wait to introduce them to my daughters…that is once they learn how to read . [...]