Engaging with C.S. Lewis: A Reflection on Till We Have Faces
When I first picked up Till We Have Faces, a retelling of the myth of Cupid and Psyche, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect from C.S. Lewis. Renowned for his powerful allegories like The Chronicles of Narnia, I was curious to see how he would weave together themes of love, jealousy, and faith into a narrative that felt both ancient and profoundly relevant. What struck me immediately was the unique perspective of the story, told through the eyes of Orual, Psyche’s elder sister. This offered me a refreshing, and often heartbreaking, lens through which to explore a classic tale.
Orual is a complex character—sometimes unapologetically harsh, often filled with self-doubt and longing. She embodies the struggle between selfless love and possessive jealousy, especially in her relationship with her sister, the beautiful and innocent Psyche. As I delved deeper, I found myself resonating with Orual’s journey: her quest not only to rescue her sister from the clutches of a vengeful goddess but also to find her own identity amidst her insecurities and societal expectations.
The themes of Till We Have Faces reach far beyond its mythological roots. Lewis brilliantly illuminates the nature of envy, loss, and the search for truth. This exploration of “jealous love” prompted me to reflect on my own relationships and how easily we can nullify others’ happiness out of fear and possessiveness. The poignant quote, “How can they meet us face to face till we have faces?” echoes throughout the narrative. For me, it serves as a reminder that self-acceptance and vulnerability are crucial for genuine connection.
Lewis’ prose is both lyrical and contemplative, drawing readers into the rich landscapes of Glome while balancing moments of profound wisdom with emotional depth. Although some might find the pacing slow at the beginning, the intricate character development and lush, immersive writing eventually envelop you, as Orual’s story unravels like a tightly wound rose, each petal adding layers of complexity and insight.
One standout moment that resonated deeply was Orual’s realization of her own failures as both a sister and a ruler. This moment of raw honesty left me contemplating my own flaws and the nature of love in all its forms. The contrasting personalities of Orual and her sister encapsulate the struggle between selfishness and selflessness, and it’s a journey that prompts both reflection and growth.
I wholeheartedly recommend Till We Have Faces to anyone who enjoys rich storytelling that invites contemplation. Whether you’re new to C.S. Lewis or have long appreciated his work, this book offers a unique vantage point into the human condition—full of trials, questions, and, ultimately, a quest for forgiveness and understanding. Reading it was not just an exercise in exploring a retold myth; it was an invitation to consider the depth of my connections with others and the complexities that come with love.
In closing, if you’re willing to immerse yourself in a story that’s both haunting and beautiful, perhaps it’s time to discover the hidden depths of Orual’s tale. You might find that, like me, you leave the pages with a deeper understanding of what it means to truly “have a face.”