Till We Have Faces : Book Review

"Till We Have Faces" by C.S. Lewis is a captivating and thought-provoking novel that delves deep into the themes of love, faith, and understanding. Drawing inspiration from the Greek myth of Cupid and Psyche, Lewis offers a unique twist by presenting the story from the perspective of Psyche's sister, Orual. Through Orual's narrative, the novel explores the complexities of human emotions, the true nature of beauty, and the choices we make when faced with challenges.

Lewis's writing style is beautifully crafted, immersing readers in the vivid descriptions of the land of Glome and its inhabitants. The characters, especially the protagonist Orual, are skillfully developed and multi-dimensional. Orual's personal journey from jealousy and bitterness to self-reflection and self-discovery resonates with readers, inspiring them to reflect on their own personal growth.

One of the major strengths of "Till We Have Faces" lies in Lewis's exploration of divine love and its impact on human relationships. By questioning the nature of faith and the existence of God, the novel invites readers to examine their own beliefs and perspectives. Lewis effortlessly integrates these philosophical elements into the narrative, resulting in an intellectually stimulating and introspective reading experience.

Aside from its profound themes, the novel also boasts a compelling and engaging storyline. With unexpected twists and turns, the plot keeps readers enthralled and eager to unveil the next developments. The final chapters are particularly moving and poignant, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

Overall, "Till We Have Faces" showcases the literary genius of C.S. Lewis and offers a powerful exploration of existential questions through the art of storytelling. It is a must-read for fans of Lewis's works and anyone seeking to explore the complexities of human existence through the medium of fiction.

What are readers saying?

C.S. Lewis' novel "Till We Have Faces" has garnered a diverse range of opinions from readers. While many praise Lewis' writing style and philosophical themes, others struggled to connect with the story. Some readers compared this book to Lewis' renowned works, such as "The Chronicles of Narnia," and were disappointed by the absence of fantasy elements. However, others appreciated the departure from his usual style and admired the depth of the narrative.

The book's exploration of profound themes, including love, sacrifice, and the nature of the divine, was a standout feature for many readers. They commended Lewis for delving into these existential questions and for making them relatable through the various character journeys. However, there were differing opinions regarding the characters themselves. While some found them well-developed and relatable, others struggled to connect or understand them fully. The story is narrated from the perspective of the main character, Orual, which drew mixed responses. Some found her voice compelling and enjoyed the first-person viewpoint, while others found it confusing or unreliable.

Opinions also varied when it came to the pacing and structure of the book. Some readers thought the story progressed slowly and proved challenging to get through, whereas others appreciated the detailed descriptions and intricate plotting. Yet several reviewers noted that the latter half of the book picked up, becoming more engaging and emotionally impactful.

Overall, "Till We Have Faces" has elicited a range of reactions from readers. While some praised Lewis' writing style and the profoundness of its philosophical themes, others found the story confusing or lacking in expected fantastical elements. Despite these mixed reviews, those interested in Lewis' exploration of existential questions and the human experience may still find this book worth a read.