| Title | On Stories |
| Author | C. S. Lewis |
| Publisher | HarprerOne |
| Year | 2017 |
| Pages | 272 |
| Rating | ★★★★★ |
| Purchase Link | Buy Here |
“On Stories” is a collection of essays by C.S. Lewis, an eloquent reflection on the nature, purpose, and impact of stories on human life.
The book offers deep insights into the art of storytelling and literature in general. Read summaries about other books clicking here.
Synopsis of On Stories
Through its analysis and criticism, the book offers a look into the mind of one of the most important thinkers and writers of the 20th century.
“On Stories” collects essays that C.S. Lewis wrote throughout his life, exploring different aspects of stories and literature. Essays cover a variety of topics, from the value and role of stories in society to the influence of environment and culture on how stories are told.
Lewis also discusses the role of the reader, the importance of myth and the fantastic, and the relationship between literature and religion. You can buy On Stories (by C. S. Lewis) here.
Who was C.S. Lewis?
Clive Staples Lewis, better known as C.S. Lewis, was one of the most influential intellectuals of the 20th century.
C. S. Lewis was a British academic, novelist, poet, literary critic, essayist, and theologian. Lewis is best known for his “The Chronicles of Narnia” book series, but his work also includes essays on literature, religion, and morality. He was Professor of Medieval and Renaissance Literature at the University of Oxford and later at the University of Cambridge.
His ability to combine his academic erudition with his deep Christian faith resulted in a work that continues to be widely read and studied. Read a summary on The Problem of Pain here.
Summary of On Stories
“On Stories” is a compilation of 20 essays covering a wide range of topics.
Lewis reflects on the role of stories in shaping morals, the value of myth, the need for fantasy, and the relationship between literature and religion. He criticizes modernity and its tendencies, defending the importance of tradition and eternal values. Some essays analyze specific works, such as “The Lord of the Rings” by J.R.R. Tolkien and “The Ring of the Nibelung” by Richard Wagner.
Others discuss the nature of heroism, the meaning of suffering, and the importance of love and friendship. You can buy On Stories (by C. S. Lewis) here.
Review of On Stories
“On Stories” is an essential work for anyone interested in literature, whether as a reader or writer.
The essays are independent, but together they form a cohesive whole that reflects Lewis’s views on literature and life. It is a challenging but also deeply rewarding read, offering insights that go beyond literature and touch fundamental questions of human existence. It’s worth reading!
Lewis’ vision is penetrating and his writing is clear and engaging. He challenges modern conventions and defends the value of traditional stories and myths. You can buy On Stories (by C. S. Lewis) here.
9 Key Lessons of On Stories
1. Stories have intrinsic value and play a crucial role in shaping morals and character.
2. Myth and fantasy are vital forms of human expression and offer a means of exploring universal truths.
3. Literature should be judged on its own merits, not by external criteria.
4. Tradition is valuable and must be respected, not discarded in favor of the new.
5. Modernity and its trends must be questioned and criticized.
6. Heroism, love and friendship are universal themes that continue to resonate.
7. Reading is an active activity, not a passive one.
8. Literature and religion are closely linked and can illuminate each other.
9. Art is a way of seeking and expressing the truth.
To know more, click here and check a summary on The Weight of Glory.
Negative Points of On Stories
While “On Stories” is a work of great scholarship and insight, it can be difficult for some readers.
Lewis frequently makes references to literary and philosophical works that may be unfamiliar to some, making parts of the book inaccessible to anyone unfamiliar with these references.
However, this does not prevent reading and enjoying the book. He can help you to know several works, including. Click here to read a summar on Reflections on the Psalms.
Positive Points of On Stories
“On Stories” is a rich and thoughtful work that offers valuable insights into literature and life.
The depth and breadth of Lewis’ reflections on literature, myth, morality, and religion make this book a valuable read for students, scholars, writers, and anyone interested in the nature of storytelling and storytelling. Lewis’ writing is clear and engaging, making complex topics accessible.
The essays are varied, covering a wide range of topics, and Lewis’ perspective is always original and challenging. Read a summary of Screwtape Letters, by the same author, here.
Is On Stories worth reading?
Through his insightful analysis and profound reflections, Lewis challenges us to rethink our understanding of literature and life.
This book is a must-read for anyone interested in literature, storytelling, and the intersection of faith and culture. Furthermore, even those who disagree with Lewis’ views will find his ideas a valuable stimulus for thought and discussion. It’s worth reading!
It’s a book that offers a fascinating look into the mind of one of the most influential thinkers and writers of the 20th century. You can buy On Stories (by C. S. Lewis) here.
Questions from On Stories
Here are some questions about Lewis’s life and work.
What did CS Lewis like to do?
C.S. Lewis enjoyed reading, writing, teaching, and theological and philosophical discussions.
How many works did CS Lewis write?
Lewis has written more than 30 works, including novels, nonfiction, poetry and essays.
What is the reading order of CS Lewis books?
The reading order of C. S. Lewis depends on interest, but a good starting point is the “Chronicles of Narnia” series, followed by “Pure and Simple Christianity” and “Letters from a Devil to His Apprentice”.
What did C. S. Lewis do during World War II?
During World War II, Lewis gave a series of radio lectures on the Christian faith, which were later compiled into the book “Pure and Simple Christianity”.
What is the best selling book by C.S. Lewis?
The best-selling book by C.S. Lewis is “The Chronicles of Narnia”, a series of seven books.
What are Lewis’s 4 loves?
Lewis wrote about four types of love: Storge (family love), Philia (brotherly love), Eros (romantic love) and Agape (unconditional love, charity).
What was the first book written by Lewis?
The first book published by Lewis was “Spirits in Bondage”, a collection of poems, in 1919.
Why C.S. Did Lewis convert?
C.S. Lewis converted from atheism to theism and finally to Christianity, influenced by philosophical arguments and the influence of friends like J.R.R. Tolkien.
What are the main works of CS Lewis?
The main works of C.S. Lewis include “The Chronicles of Narnia”, “Christianity Pure and Simple”, “Letters from a Devil to His Apprentice” and “The Four Loves”.
How to get into the habit of reading?
To create a reading habit, start with books of interest, set aside time each day to read, create a quiet environment, and read a little each day.
What was CS Lewis’s religion?
C.S. Lewis was a Christian. He was originally an atheist but converted to Anglican Christianity.
How many books did CS Lewis sell?
The books by C.S. Lewis have sold over 100 million copies worldwide.
Which CS Lewis book to read first?
It is recommended to start with “The Chronicles of Narnia” or “Pure and Simple Christianity”.
What does the book Mere and Simple Christianity say?
“Pure and Simple Christianity” presents the basic principles of the Christian faith, such as the existence of God, the nature of man and the need for salvation.
What is the name of love between a couple?
Love between a couple is usually referred to as “Eros”, which is the Greek term for romantic love.
What are the 7 different types of love?
The seven types of love, as defined by the ancient Greeks, are: Eros (romantic love), Philia (friendship), Storge (family love), Agape (selfless love), Ludus (playful love), Pragma (enduring love) and Philautia (self love).
What is love between friends called?
Love between friends is called “Philia”, which is the Greek term for brotherly love or friendship.
Like C.S. Lewis wrote The Chronicles of Narnia?
C.S. Lewis wrote “The Chronicles of Narnia” over several years, inspired by mythologies, his Christian faith and the landscape of rural England.
How old is C.S. Lewis?
C.S. Lewis was born on November 29, 1898 and died on November 22, 1963, so he would have been 125 years old in 2024.
What C.S. Lewis talks about love?
C.S. Lewis wrote extensively about love in “The Four Loves”, where he described four types of love: Storge, Philia, Eros and Agape.
What C.S. Lewis talks about Friendship?
In “The Four Loves”, Lewis describes Philia or friendship as the love found in friends who share a common interest and value each other.
What C.S. Lewis talks about marriage?
C.S. Lewis wrote about marriage in “The Four Loves” and “The Love Letters of a Devil to His Apprentice”, highlighting it as a partnership of love (Eros) and friendship (Philia).