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Sunday 4 September 2022

Book Review – “The Four Loves “by C.S.Lewis


 

Some of C.S.Lewis’ works are easier to read than others. His style varies from deeply theological academic-style prose to more lightweight fantasy fiction. One thing all his works have in common- they never fail to move the reader and provoke contemplation of the subject matter. I would place “The Four Loves” mid -range on the scale of readability. I would place it top of the range as far as provoking further thought and discussion.

“Love is love” is a catch cry often heard today. But what is love? Is it always love? The English language does not allow for its many nuances. I do not love my husband in the same way that I love my children. I don’t love my dog in the same way that I love my sister. I don’t love to eat pasta in the same way that I love to knit blankets to give away to strangers. I love none of these things in the same way that I love Jesus.

There are many words that hover around, unseen in the proximity of love- lust, mateship, gratification, friendship, faith, dependency, self-gratification. There are other words that used to be hanging around that have seemingly been pushed aside as society changes – fidelity, sacrifice, abstinence, perseverance.

Sixty years ago, Lewis wrote this book and attempted to describe four types of love – Affection, Friendship, Eros and Charity. In each case with immaculate thoroughness of thought he details the differences between each type. There are also characteristics common to all. As humans we need love- we need to receive love and we need to give love. It’s always an interrelated transaction.

I almost think that this is a book that could be read in reverse, because Lewis leaves the highest form of love, that of the love of God, until the last section. (It could be argued that God’s love runs through all the other sections regardless.) God of course, is the ultimate giver of love. He loved us before He even created us. He gave His Son Jesus to die for us. He sent His Holy Spirit to be with us throughout this earthly life we live, for those of us who have accepted Jesus as their Saviour. There is no greater or more perfect love in this imperfect world.

As a parent with a child, there is no love without boundaries. Live according to God’s principles in the Bible (and that means reading and studying the Bible) and God’s love will be your guiding light. The devil is also an expert on love. He loves to steal, kill and destroy. He will tempt you with things that you might “love” i.e., that will bring you personal gratification. They will seem so attractive and desirable. Then they will ultimately take away your happiness, salvation, life. I found it profoundly moving to read these words by Lewis on the subject of erotic love:

“Eros, honoured without reservation and obeyed unconditionally, becomes a demon. And this is just how he claims to be honoured and obeyed. Divinely indifferent to our selfishness, he is also demoniacally rebellious to every claim of God or Man that would oppose him. “

Like many of Lewis’ works, “The Four Loves” is a timeless classic which challenges the reader today. I thoroughly recommend it.

  


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