Introduction

[John]

C.S. Lewis—the great British writer, scholar, lay theologian, broadcaster, Christian apologist, and bestselling author of Mere Christianity, The Screwtape Letters, The Great Divorce, The Chronicles of Narnia, and many other beloved classics—contemplates the essence of love and how it works in our daily lives in one of his most famous works of nonfiction. Lewis examines four varieties of human love: affection, the most basic form; friendship, the rarest and perhaps most insightful; Eros, passionate love; charity, the greatest and least selfish. Throughout this compassionate and reasoned study, he encourages readers to open themselves to all forms of love—the key to understanding that brings us closer to God.

In addition to our standard questions, these discussion questions are mostly taken from a discussion guide posted by the C.S. Lewis Foundation. As always, feel free to suggest your own questions.

[Christian]

After reading the Introduction, I have a better understanding of Lewis's quote regarding "Nature" that is being discussed on this forum. Nature is near to God in the sense of "nearness-by-likeness," as it is something created by Him and is therefore has been impressed by his likeness. Human beings share in this insofar as they are part of nature, but with the addition of "being rational." Our rationality allows us to approach God and fulfill our destiny as human beings. As Lewis notes a little further on page 7, "What is near Him by likeness is never, by that fact alone, going to be any nearer. But nearness of approach is, by definition, increasing nearness. And whereas the likeness is given to us--and can be received with or without hanks, can be used or abused--the approach, however initiated and supported by Grace, is something we must do."

This is really key to my nascent understanding of Lewis's thought (confession: I've never read any Lewis before, save for about 20 pages of one of the Narnia books I read with my son). This, to me, is different from saying that our "real selves" are a part of God, have never left the Kingdom, etc. That we are, as souls, in an unbreakable union with the Godhead and only need the Grace to realize this--that this is, in fact, our work.

[Fonch]

I also have Read The beggining It is really Interesting the two loves described by C.S. Lewis and the two wrongs of Love that we convert in God or we mock of Love. In the First case C.S. Lewis quote to Patmore, Browning and Kingsley and the second he did not mention any author although we Might think in George Bernard Shaw. It is important other thing God is Love and not Love is God.

[Cathy]

I read the four loves many years ago along with "mere christianity"

C.S. Lewis to me is one of the great religious writers in modern history. I love this book so much I referred to it in my recently published book. I am a new spiritual author who loves good spiritual writing. Henri Nouwen is another favorite. I am excited to join this group. And yes I will need to dig up my old copy and re-read it. Good choice!!