Spirits in bondage; a cycle of lyrics
Product Description
Published in 1919 when Lewis was only twenty, these early poems give an insight into the author’s youthful agnosticism. The poems are written in various metrical forms, but are unified by a central idea, expressing his conviction that nature was malevolent and beauty the only true spirituality. Preface by Walter Hooper…. More >>
Spirits in bondage; a cycle of lyrics
The creativity and keen spiritual insights that have made C.S. Lewis the most renowned Christian writer of the modern era combine with eloquent poetry to reveal the writer’s struggles, hopes and nightmares that predate his conversion to Christianity. This book of poems illustrates his yearning for truth and salvation by revealing his images God, man and Satan in delightful, rhyming lyrics. The intellectual and spiritual force present in these poems create a powerful edge rarely matched. Readers will discern the drive that eventually leads Lewis to find “his heart’s delight.” This is a must-have for those who have appreciated Lewis’ other writings.
Lewis’ searching and questions parallel many who have had doubts about the present reality and character of a God that seems to hide in mysteries. The genius behind Mere Christianity and the Chronicles of Narnia is behind these poems, even though he has yet to have his eyes opened. The heart of a desperate, sincere seeker of God is painted in these lyrics that in themselves make great poetry.
Rating: 5 / 5
I know that Lewis is mostly known for his books, but these poems have images in them that have remained in my mind for several years after I’ve read them…the imagery, and the ideas, is what really works in these poems.
Also, it is very interesting to read what Lewis wrote before he became a Christian; since most of his writings are religious.
Rating: 5 / 5
Considering Lewis wrote this cycle of poems when he was in his early twenties, they provide incredibly mature insight into the role pain has in people’s lives. I ordered this book because I am writing my thesis on C.S. Lewis – I have to say, no study of Lewis’ work is complete without this, his earliest and perhaps most poignant contribution to thoughts on powerfully important human topics like pain.
Rating: 5 / 5
These poems have their bright spots, thought in parts they are rather overloaded with mythic words and a sense that the author was struggling to keep up a sense of awe and epicness and failing in the process. Most of the poems revolve around two themes: (1) I hate God and (2) I hate the world. Most of them are not happy poems to say the least.
While they are not excellent poetry, they are decent, and very good if you take into consideration that he wrote them while a teenager. They provide a glimpse into his thoughts on life and God which cannot even be seen in his letters from the period. He apparently felt he was able to write in poetry what he did not necessarily want others to know that be thought. The fact that he published it under the false name Clive Hamilton should not be overlooked.
In short, do not get this if you’re looking for excellent poetry. Get this if you want to understand the development of Lewis’ thought.
Overall grade: B+
Rating: 4 / 5
CS Lewis is not as highly regarded in poetry as he is inchildren’s fiction, science fiction, Christian apologetics, andliterary criticism.
Moreover, this book was written before his converted to Christianity. You will therefore NOT know Lewis if this is all you’re ever going to read of his works, and that would be a pity. He is simply one of the best in the business, with a very well focused and well defined moral vision…
Rating: 2 / 5