Inspiration

My Secret Inspiration: C.S. Lewis

I don't remember exactly what incentivized me to read something by C.S. Lewis., but I certainly recall reading through Mere Christianity in 2012. It was the first book I read by him, and once I had finished reading it, I had to read his other works. I purchased a book collection of some of his most popular writings and also read The Abolition of Man and The Problem of Pain in the following months. All of these books are extremely deep musings over complex philosophical and Christian matters, and although I had a hard time comprehending what he was saying at times, Lewis managed to hold my attention at every turn. His use of metaphors and similes to explain difficult concepts, humor, sharp wit, clever deduction, and eloquence put him on par with some of the most respected philosophers, theologians, and story writers. Yes, he's that good.

Clive Staples Lewis was born in Belfast, Ireland on November 29, 1898 and died on November 22, 1963, which is the same day that John F. Kennedy was assassinated. Unfortunately, this overshadowed Lewis' death during that time while everyone was understandably focused on JFK's tragic death, but if that had not happened, the world would have mourned Lewis' death more greatly because of his wonderful life story and incredible accomplishments.

Lewis had a great mind, which was evidenced in his studies during his childhood. He had a fascination for things like mythology and poetry. He also grew up a Christian, but when he was drafted into the British Army for World War I and saw the horrors of it, he fully converted to atheism, which he slowly leaned toward during his teenage years. However, after beginning his work at Oxford University and becoming good friends with J.R.R. Tolkien, he converted back to Christianity in 1931. This was the beginning of his true literary career. Starting with The Pilgrim's Regress in 1933, he wrote a series of Christian books (being either apologetic, satirical, or philosophical in style), the Space trilogy, the Chronicles of Narnia series, and more.

I have yet to read many of his books, but I know for sure that I'll be making time to do so when I can. His writing greatly inspires me even though I've only read three of his works, but I suppose that goes to show how incredible he was and still is.