Initial thoughts

I'm finishing this review rather late, but as they say, better late than never

My dear Wormwood...

This is how one of Lewis' most profound works commences. If I were unaware that this book was penned in 1942, I would be convinced that a significant portion of it pertains to today's contemporary church.

There is no disputing Lewis' standing among the renowned, reliable Christian authors, commentators, and apologists. The very names in this work, Wormwood and Screwtape,彰显Lewis' brilliance. Wormwood holds Biblical significance as it symbolized justice, sorrow, and bitterness, often associated with gall, the mixture with vinegar that Jesus was offered on the cross. Screwtape implies being devilish and causing chaos.

It is nearly impossible to formulate an adequate and proper review for this book, yet I shall attempt.

The titular character, Screwtape, is a demon and a master tormentor who has embarked on the Herculean task of aiding his nephew, Wormwood, in the corruption of an unnamed man. However, to Screwtape's dismay, Wormwood proves to be an arrogant and naive little tormentor in need of extensive mentoring. So much so that Screwtape is compelled to explain things in simple terms for his rather "singularly obtuse" nephew.

The Screwtape Letters are entirely fictional, yet Lewis did an exemplary job of conveying the Fallen's hatred of Christ. Even more, Lewis illustrates James 2:19: "You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder!" Screwtape indeed believes in God's existence. He simply loathes his Creator.

Screwtape refers to Satan as "Our Father" and God as "The Enemy". I found it fascinating how the concept of God's love confounds this wretched demon. Screwtape cannot fathom how God could love "such miserable creatures". Not the imperfect love we offer, but the love described in John 3:16. Of course, something so filled with hate and rejection of Christ could not even conceive of the perfection of our Lord.

There were several primary elements that struck me as I read this.

ONE: Screwtape's倡导的自满和消极。

Screwtape instructs Wormwood, "Let him do anything but act." He also states, "Indeed, the safest road to Hell is the gradual one--the gentle slope, the soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts." By distracting someone from considering their humanity and the need for a Savior, Screwtape lectures, that person will forget such bothersome thoughts and thus remain lost.

TWO: How much of Screwtape's advice is being manifested in today's church.

Not only does Screwtape advocate complacency, but he also admonishes Wormwood to convince his victim to believe "off-truths". Those things that seem like truth on the surface but are actually composed of false doctrine, heretical beliefs, and the emphasis on feelings.

This brought to mind the unbiblical series, The Chosen, and the heretical music groups, Elevation Worship, Bethel, and Hillsong. These have been embraced by the church and praised. Few have actually investigated them. If they did, they would discover that these do not worship the One True God but rather a man-made idol, notions, and desires.

The aspect of feelings was explicitly described: having the victim search for a church that suited his feelings.

Our faith is not about feelings. It is about truth. We have witnessed a "feelings-centric" wave sweep over the church, and that is eroding our foundations in this post-modern, humanistic world we inhabit today.

Three: The intellectual war on faith.

Screwtape writes, "Hence the encouragement we have given to all these schemes of thought such as Creative Evolution, Scientific Humanism, or Communism, which fixes men's affections on the Future, on the very core of temporality."

How often do we encounter statements like, "The Bible can't be true because science says..."? Or, "Modern scholars and scientists say [fill in the blank], therefore this about the Bible cannot be true".

Let me tell you this. When God created the world, He created the forces studied in science. He created science. If people claim science disproves God, it is not because the science is flawed, but because the lens and worldview of the person studying it are incorrect. Something God created cannot disprove Him.

FOUR: Indifference is the church's kryptonite.

The victim is a believer? Wormwood, you are failing. However, do not despair. There is still a way you can sever this man from his faith. And that method is called Indifference. And we witness indifference constantly these days. Indifference to unbiblical teachings. Indifference to holding fellow believers to Biblical standards. Indifference as to whether or not that music group you like promotes unbiblical claims, such as being pro-homosexual or anti-Trinity.

Conclusion
The Screwtape Letters is both spine-chilling and masterful. It is a book that I recommend to every Christian.

3.0 stars.

I was truly a little baffled when I picked up this book. I had gone into it with the firm belief that it was supposed to be humorous. However, as I delved deeper into its pages, apart from a scant few places where I could detect that the author was perhaps making an attempt to evoke a laugh, I simply did not come away from this reading experience thinking that the author was aiming for funny.

Therefore, from that particular standpoint, the book was indeed a let down. It failed to meet my initial expectations of being a humorous read.

That being said, when viewed from the standpoint of a serious piece of "Christian fantasy", the book actually succeeds much better. It is very well written, with a certain elegance and finesse in the prose. The arguments used by the writer to explain mankind's failings and how best to lead individuals into sin were not only interesting but also thought-provoking.

Bottom-line, as a comedy, it is not so good, but as an exploration of the causes of sin and vice, it is actually pretty interesting. It offers a unique perspective and makes one stop and think about the nature of good and evil.

I started reading The Screwtape Letters many years ago. However, back then, I could only manage to get through three or so pages before I found the style too challenging for my younger self.

Today, it is a clear indication of my growth as an individual and a reader that I was able to sit down this afternoon and complete the book in just two sittings.

The Screwtape Letters is perhaps C.S. Lewis' most intricate and sophisticated work. By presenting a narrative in the form of advice from a senior devil to his junior nephew, Lewis delves into profound issues, just like in his other books, but with a creative and unique twist. He explores the nature of evil and demonic forces, depicting them as both human and spiritual. This reveals that evil lurks in the seductive qualities that endanger our daily lives. As Lewis portrays it, evil is good that has been distorted and turned against its own powerful purpose.

It is precisely for this reason that I wholeheartedly recommend reading this book. It is a collection of imaginative and thought-provoking letters that cover the concept of Good and Evil. While Mere Christianity may have more appeal to Christians and those seeking spiritual answers, I believe this is one of Lewis' works that can resonate with anyone. Therefore, I highly recommend it as a classic that combines fantasy and faith, which is the best kind of work that Lewis was known for. As Lewis himself famously said, the greatest triumph of the Devil was to convince the world that he does not exist.

Fascinating! There is a truly unique conversation going on between a novice demon and his boss. It's quite original and captivating.

The novice demon, full of curiosity and perhaps a hint of nervousness, is engaging in a dialogue with his more experienced and authoritative boss. The exchange is filled with unexpected twists and turns, as the novice tries to understand the ropes and the ways of the demonic world.

The boss, on the other hand, is dispensing wisdom and instructions in a rather cryptic manner, keeping the novice on his toes. The language used is vivid and colorful, adding to the overall charm of the conversation.

It's a scene that draws you in and makes you eager to know more about what will happen next. The relationship between the novice and the boss is complex and dynamic, and their conversation provides a glimpse into the inner workings of the demonic realm.

Overall, it's a fascinating and original piece that leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

Witty? Yes. Brilliant? Yes. Funny? Not so much.

I mean, I can see how it could potentially be funny for some people, but it simply wasn't that way for me.

In fact, there were certain parts that were downright terrifying.

Why? Because as I delved into this book, I saw so much of myself within its pages. Complacent, easily distracted, and not overly invested in my faith? Sadly, that describes me far too often. This book was an extremely convicting one for me. It made me take a long, hard look at how my faith had become habitual. Which is actually a great thing. It compelled me to examine my prayer life, my Bible-reading habits, and my investment in my various vocations. I was able to see numerous areas where I was not doing what I should to thank and praise, serve and obey my Savior.

Now, that's not to say that it didn't bring a smile to my face on a couple of occasions. It did manage to make me laugh a couple of times. But overall, it made me think much more deeply than it made me laugh. This was something I was not expecting at all, but it's something that I truly appreciate.

In other words, this book was way better than I had initially hoped. It was a powerful and thought-provoking read that has had a significant impact on my spiritual journey.

"My dear Wormwood,"

... so begins a series of letters in which CS Lewis delves into the intricate peaks and valleys of human nature with a deft touch and remarkable wit.

This book has been lingering on my reading list for an eternity, and I am overjoyed that I finally had the chance to embark on this literary journey - especially considering this week's anniversary date, a beautiful stroke of serendipity.

It is one of those truly remarkable works that you can revisit time and time again, always uncovering a profound philosophical gem or a clever turn of phrase that makes you stop and ponder.

"Whatever their bodies do affects their souls. It is funny how mortals always picture us as putting things into their minds: in reality our best work is done by keeping things out...”

“Indeed the safest road to Hell is the gradual one--the gentle slope, soft underfoot, without sudden turnings, without milestones, without signposts, ... Your affectionate uncle, Screwtape.”

CS Lewis, The Screwtape Letters

November 2020

** Audiobook (hoopla)

Read by Joss Ackland

app 4hrs

This audiobook is masterfully voiced by Joss Ackland. His rich baritone voice brings that diabolical character, Screwtape, to vivid life, adding an extra layer of depth and authenticity to the already captivating narrative.

The book is crafted in a truly ingenious manner!

The story revolves around the letters from an old demon to a young demon, with the main objective being to lead humans to the evil side. I consider myself fortunate to have read this book in my native language. This is because Lewis employs difficult and archaic words, and I'm certain that I would have been completely lost from the very first few pages had I not.

The book vividly highlights the intense and tenacious battle that rages between Satan and God for the salvation of the human soul. There are many of us who tend to forget that this fight occurs throughout our entire lives. And it is through the decisions we make that, in the end, we determine our own fates. The crucial decision is simply this: Who will I choose? God or Satan?

This profound question forces us to reflect on the choices we make daily and the impact they have on our spiritual journey. It serves as a powerful reminder that we are constantly engaged in a struggle between good and evil, and our decisions ultimately shape our eternal destiny.

This book is insanely interesting, insightful and useful.

It delves deep into the recesses of our minds, reflecting on our own thoughts with a masterful touch. It uncovers the pitfalls and traps that we often fall into without even realizing it.

The author has a remarkable ability to present complex ideas in a simple and engaging way, making it accessible to readers from all walks of life.

Whether you are looking to gain a better understanding of yourself, improve your relationships, or simply expand your knowledge, this book has something for everyone.

It is a must-read for anyone who is interested in personal growth and self-improvement.

So, do yourself a favor and give this book a try. You won't be disappointed.

The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis is a work of superb writing. The portrayal of self-congratulatory and judgmental Christians who police others while downplaying their own behaviors is both incisive and cheering. I encounter such controlling and power-seeking Christian individuals all the time. I would recommend this novel to them, but unfortunately, many evangelical and fundamentalist Christians today can barely read their modernized bibles, let alone a highly literate, satiric, epistolary work like this. Goodreads Christians are an exception, of course.

Author Lewis is trolling the religious who are judgmental and stupidly so in this delightfully funny novel. It's important to note that the Republican Party's recent embrace of the religious demands of Evangelical Christianity as their platform and governing principles has had unintended consequences. In politically conservative states, the mores of these sects are becoming the de facto law, yet there is a rise in antisemitism and violence against those of other religions. The asinine rules of religious people, especially those forced on women, have contributed to my atheism. Now, Republicans are making Christian values into law, and offenders against Evangelical Christian morality will be punished.

Religious fundamentalism is causing a decline in the number of truly religious observers as its rules are impossible to follow. Currently, Christian fundamentalists are taking over governments in American states, imposing book bans, controlling women's bodies, and censoring history. Schoolteachers and librarians can be arrested for teaching certain topics, and women are being forced to carry fetuses to term in Republican-controlled states, regardless of the circumstances. The Republican Party and Christian conservatives are passing laws that push mothers to work quickly after giving birth, yet they provide little support for mothers and children. Mothers often struggle to afford childcare, healthcare, and basic necessities for their children. The advice given to teens and women by Republicans and conservatives - abstinence and evangelical faith - has not been effective in addressing the issues faced by pregnant teens and single mothers. As a result, there is a shortage of doctors and teachers in Republican states, and many young people are growing up without proper knowledge of sexuality and history. The Republican Party's actions are not in line with the principles of Jesus, and passing punitive laws based on religious mores is not good for families or very Christian.

When I first discovered this title, I kept thinking, what could this be? What does it refer to? What advice? What the devil? How come? Why? How does Lewis know how a devil thinks? Does what he says have biblical support or is it just empty talk? All these questions received an appropriate answer after reading the book. Without the intention of spoiling too much, I would like to give my opinion on the margin of it.

A book that grabs you from the very beginning. Unique in its form. Deep in essence and ideas. Amazingly short. Lewis pleasantly surprises the reader here with this continuous fire of "advice" from an older and more experienced devil, advice that is intended for his novice, younger and just starting out in the activity of tempting and winning souls for hell.

The book is indeed fictional, but its principles are real and biblical. The characters are fictional, but demons exist. There should be no confusion here, but it must be dissected in the most nuanced way. The book is excellent in the sense that it successfully presents what is happening behind the "scene" where the spiritual battle for the human soul takes place. Yes, there is a battle, as invisible as it is fierce in the spiritual realm, which is not made visible to the physical eyes.

I believe that for non-Christians, atheists, skeptics, agnostics or simply for the unbelievers, the book is devoid of any meaning. Strange. Even absurd. However, for a believer, everything makes sense; for him it is not madness. Likewise, those who do not believe in a real hell, in Satan as a real spiritual and demonic entity, the book may be useless. A dry reading. In this case, I no longer see the point of reading it.

Throughout the book, Lewis' goal - as I understood it - is to put the reader in the shoes of a devil, or rather, in his mind. Somehow, he helps us see their plan before it is put into action, giving us time to prepare for what is to come. He makes us see what we could not see otherwise, unless we were in that position. This is, I believe, the central psychological aspect of the book. If we knew that many attacks come from the demonic spirits, I believe we would live very differently. If we really realized this danger, we would seek more holiness, rendering all these demonic efforts ineffective. This is where the practical stake of the book lies.

The book has the power to mobilize you if you are standing still. It has the power to motivate you to a more attentive life if you are neglectful. Well written, stylized, elegant, it has the power to demand your attention until the end, creating a general atmosphere of curiosity. After each letter I was curious to see what the two would do next. Its ideas are both theological, philosophical, practical, as well as psychological. We are dealing with an amalgam carefully crafted.

As for its composition, I believe it would have worked very well if these short letters consisted rather of a dialogue between the two, rather than a monologue. Screwtape has monopolized the discussion, putting all the attention on him. I believe it would have been more interesting and interactive if the discussions were more incisive, dynamic than they are now. While reading I kept thinking, but what does Wormwood say in his defense? What is his reply? How does he answer his superior? I expected to see this, but it was not. Lewis somehow leaves us to deduce, to intuit what would happen. The discussion was more of a one-way street, with a single meaning. At times I had the impression that Screwtape was repeating himself in what he said, with or without intention. But, let it pass.

Another thing that Lewis did not do was that he did not create a context, did not outline the characters better. He did not delimit the framework. He did not place all these pieces in a well-established universe. Because of this, the book is limited only to the fact that Screwtape writes certain letters to his novice. And that's about it. We don't know where he is, where Wormwood is. Everything seems hasty, somehow superficial, in the fog, and leaves room for speculation. I believe Lewis' intention was to make a book as short as possible. But sometimes this works, sometimes it doesn't. At times I came across certain ideas that I considered not to be biblical, such as the loss of salvation.

The edition by Humanitas is very good, although we would have preferred them to translate the title in a more faithful way. I expected there to be an introduction at the beginning, but it was missing. There were not many annotations, although I believe they were necessary in several places. The translation is excellently done. The technical editing is flawless. I read the physical edition from 2012, where the quality of the binding leaves much to be desired, the font is different, and the last pages even came off after the first reading. I will get the hardcover edition this time.

Although there is much to be said, I stop here to leave the reader the joy of discovery. So, is it worth reading the book? Absolutely. At least once in a lifetime.

C.S. Lewis got the inspiration for The Scewtape Letters during a Eucharist service. In 1941, the book was published and dedicated to his friend J.R.R. Tolkien, who found it rather strange.

This book is extremely witty and funny, yet also very serious. In contrast to what Lewis called 'chronological snobbery', it is about the reality of dark forces in the world that seek to devour human beings. However, the goodness, love, glory, and beauty of Christ prevail over these dark forces, which I firmly believe.

It is a book that people with different worldviews can read and find captivating. John Cleese of Monty Python even did an audiobook of it, which is highly entertaining! This book brought great fame to Lewis, much to the annoyance of his pretentious colleagues. He had many letters to answer and a literary vocation to pursue as a religious writer and scholar, which he accomplished very well.

I remember being in the church in Headington, England, where Lewis got the idea. I am truly grateful for this Irishman's writings.