'Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold' by C.S. Lewis is a retelling of the Roman myth of Cupid and Psyche, focusing on the perspective of Psyche's sister, Orual. The book delves deep into themes of love, jealousy, self-deceit, and the struggle with divinity, presenting a complex and sympathetic portrayal of the characters. The narrative explores the concept of knowing oneself before truly knowing love, while beautifully examining the power of love in our lives.
The writing style of the book is described as rich in language and wisdom, with exceptional storytelling that weaves a complex and amazing story of human emotions and choices. C.S. Lewis skillfully uses mythological elements to bring forth deep passions and consequences of our actions, creating a thought-provoking and engrossing tale that challenges readers to reflect on their own beliefs and relationships with the divine.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
Content warnings include themes of self-harm, jealousy, complex family dynamics, and discussions of divine punishment.
From The Publisher:
C. S. Lewis-the great British writer, scholar, lay theologian, broadcaster, Christian apologist, and bestselling author of Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Chronicles of Narnia, and many other beloved classics-brilliantly reimagines the story of Cupid and Psyche. Told from the viewpoint of Psyche's sister, Orual, Till We Have Faces is a brilliant examination of envy, betrayal, loss, blame, grief, guilt, and conversion. In this, his final-and most mature and masterful-novel, Lewis reminds us of our own fallibility and the role of a higher power in our lives.
Ratings (23)
Incredible (6) | |
Loved It (11) | |
Liked It (2) | |
It Was OK (3) | |
Did Not Like (1) |
Reader Stats (85):
Read It (25) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (42) | |
Not Interested (17) |
2 comment(s)
4.5/5 Stars - Man… this book. I kept thinking while reading, “this doesn’t seem like a book I’d like, but I do”. I’m glad that I read this immediately after finishing the Narnia series, because it’s obvious to see how vastly improved this book, Lewis’s final novel, is compared to his earlier works of fiction.
Unlike the often skeletal outlines of Narnia, we get fully fledged characters in a fully developed setting. We get insight into characters thoughts and motivations. Most of all, we get a compelling story with twists and turns and heartache.
The ending took me by surprise and at first felt unsatisfying, but upon reflection it was clear that it was the only possible ending and it was where the story and characters had been leading us all along.
I have a soft spot for Narnia, but this book shows Lewis’s real writing chops, and more importantly it shows that he can include important messages in his writing without blatantly bashing you over the head with it.
“I saw well why the gods do not speak to us openly, nor let us answer. Till that word can be dug out of us, why should they hear the babble that we think we mean? How can they meet us face to face till we have faces?”
This was very different then what I was expecting (not that I really had many expectations). Overall, I'm giving this 4 stars (or maybe 3.5?), because it was generally enjoyable but not without some flaws.
Most of the novel felt very much like YA fantasy, much to my surprise. Orual is a fascinating character, and most of her story was very engaging, even if I was kind of confused towards the end. My main complaints are that the plot seemed a bit distant and to lack focus (by which I mean that I'm still not entirely sure what this novel was
about, apart from some general themes—I suppose it's intended to be a character study?).
I know Lewis was a lover of metaphor and allegory, but I'm struggling to understand what greater messages he was trying to get across. I think this speaks to the fact that this novel seems much more complex and nuanced than his other fiction,
The Chronicles of Narnia and
The Space Trilogy.
What can you read after
Till We Have Faces: A Myth Retold?
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