Scan barcode
spacejamz's review against another edition
4.0
There are some incredible moments in this book, and while I appreciate its density (it's only 220 pages, and took me three months to read), I think it's ultimately weighed down by trying to say too much in too many ways. Virginia Woolf, Dante, existentialism, the average nightmare, and his friend C. S. Lewis seemed the most obvious influences, but this list could go on forever.
chl0e_c's review against another edition
3.0
I was intrigued to read this "theological thriller" when I realized that the author, Charles Williams, was a member of the “Inklings" and a friend of Tolkien and Lewis. For me, this was a difficult read—and very, very weird. The concepts of time and dimension are confusing, as the past, present, physical world, and spiritual world all simultaneously intersect/connect with each other somehow.
I did enjoy the challenge of the read, although I felt much of the theological depth and allusion went over my head. Nevertheless, after reading this, the Scriptural command to "bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ" has taken on a new powerful & redeeming meaning for me. Also, I’m definitely still pondering the vivid, haunting portrayal that the real horror of the “descent into hell” is not an external torment—but a torment originating *internally* from one’s willful & deliberate choices to live for self-fulfillment.
I did enjoy the challenge of the read, although I felt much of the theological depth and allusion went over my head. Nevertheless, after reading this, the Scriptural command to "bear one another’s burdens and so fulfill the law of Christ" has taken on a new powerful & redeeming meaning for me. Also, I’m definitely still pondering the vivid, haunting portrayal that the real horror of the “descent into hell” is not an external torment—but a torment originating *internally* from one’s willful & deliberate choices to live for self-fulfillment.
helenahvg's review against another edition
dark
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
raybob23's review against another edition
5.0
Williams has a way of tying together intricate poetic language with an underlying, and very serious message. He woos and teaches at the same time.
sistermagpie's review
3.0
That was trippy! There were times when I had a hard time getting into this book, but the parts that worked for me really worked. I especially liked the whole metaphor about Gomorrah and the tragic ending of historian Wentworth who chooses an imaginary figure rather than dealing with the difficulty of someone else. Perhaps it was so chilling because he was so easy to believe!
More...