Mere C.S. Lewis

Check out Magic Mind: https://www.magicmind.com/MERECSLJANIn this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, we dive into C.S. Lewis’ essay “It All Began with a Picture…” 🎨, where he shares how The Chronicles of Narnia first took shape in his imagination. How did a mental image of a faun with an umbrella ☂️ lead to one of the most beloved fantasy series of all time? We’ll explore Lewis’ creative process, the mystery of inspiration, and what his experience teaches us about storytelling and faith.Plus, Thornton gives an overview of the year ahead 📅 and tackles the Chronicles of Narnia reading order controversy 📚🔥—should you read them in publication order or chronological order? Join us for a fascinating discussion on Lewis, imagination, and the stories that shape us!Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email at merecslewis@gmail.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please like, rate, or subscribe.

In this episode of The Mere C.S. Lewis Podcast, Thornton is joined by David Bates (Pints with Jack) and singer-songwriter Matt Wheeler for a deep dive into their favorite Narnia book—The Horse and His Boy! 🏜️🐎 From daring escapes and desert treks to Aslan’s unseen guidance and a surprisingly hilarious villain, they unpack what makes this adventure so special.Expect plenty of fanboy moments 🤓, discussions on the "problem of Susan", and why this book has captivated us for so long. Plus, Matt shares how Narnia influences his music 🎶, and David breaks down the book’s underrated humor! 😂Whether you're a longtime Narnia fan or discovering The Horse and His Boy for the first time, this episode will have you dreaming of desert sunsets and talking horses. 🌅🐴🎧 Grab your tea (Calormen Sunset blend 🍑🍵) and join the conversation!Check out Matt's music at his website.Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email at merecslewis@gmail.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Kindly like, rate, or subscribe.#CSLewis #Narnia #TheLionTheWitchAndTheWardrobe #OnceUponAWardrobe

How do you bring the wonder of Narnia from the page to the stage? In this episode, I’m joined by Noah Stratton from The Logos Theatre, where they are bringing The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe to life in a breathtaking stage production. 🎭✨We’ll go behind the scenes to discuss the creative process, the challenges of adapting Lewis’ beloved classic, and the deep themes of sacrifice, redemption, and courage that make this story timeless. From stunning costumes to larger-than-life puppetry (yes, even Aslan himself! 🦁🔥), you won’t want to miss this conversation.So grab a warm drink ☕, imagine yourself stepping through the wardrobe, and join us as we explore the magic of Narnia on stage!You can check out the play and purchase tickets at this link.Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email at merecslewis@gmail.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Kindly like, rate, or subscribe.#CSLewis #Narnia #TheLionTheWitchAndTheWardrobe #LogosTheatre #StageMagic #AslanIsOnTheMove

Jordan, from the Lesser-Known Lewis podcast, talks with Thornton about Lewis essay about faith, salvation, and aliens. Check out the LKL podcast at this link. Check out Jordan on Fargo here. Connect with him on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Send a voice message at this link. Please like, rate, or subscribe. Check out the new https://merecslewis.com/

Thornton lays out the map for the new journey through Lewis' life and writings. He discusses the essay "On Stories" to learn what Lewis had to say about stories, characters, and plot. Connect with him on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email us at merecslewis@gmail.com. Check out the new www.merecslewis.com

Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts on forgiveness. Lewis discusses the difference between excusing and forgiveness and what the Lord requires of us concerning forgiveness.  Episode Outline: Banter/The Horse and His Boy ticket discounts Background and Context Overview of the Book Thoughts and Analysis Andrew and Thornton's stories of forgiveness Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis and merecslewis@gmail.com. You can read the essay here: https://www.maitlandpres.org/post/cslewis

Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts on chivalry. Lewis discusses the major themes of the poems and how they have nourished his walk. Episode Outline: Banter Background and Context Overview of the Book Thoughts and Analysis Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis and merecslewis@gmail.com.

Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's thoughts and meditations on the Bible's book of poetry. Lewis discusses the major themes of the poems and how they have nourished his walk.  Episode Outline: Banter Background and Context Overview of the Book/Thoughts and Analysis Criticisms of the Book Game: Psalms trivia References in Episode: More C.S. Lewis biography films The Horse and His Boy play at the Museum of the Bible Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay written at the end of Lewis' life. He talks about how we can know if prayer is effective and how Christians should view prayer.  We had some audio and technical issues so please forgive the low quality. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's memoir. Lewis explains his emotional and spiritual journey from atheism to Christianity. Episode Outline: Banter Background and Context  Overview of the Book Criticisms of the Book Mentions and References in Popular Culture Thornton and Andrew's Testimonies  Game: CS Lewis Mad Lib References in Episode: Wordsworth's Surprised by Joy poem The Most Reluctant Convert Website Wallpaper Revival's Surprised by Joy album Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay set during the beginning years of WWII. Lewis gives a biblical explanation of glory and what it means for the daily Christian walk. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Andrew and Thornton journey through Lewis's last formal apologetic work. Lewis's argument helps the brothers see the World and their Faith in a new light.  Episode Outline: Banter Background and Context (Broadcasts took place in WWII) Overview of the Book Criticisms of the Book Mentions and References in Popular Culture Thoughts, Analysis, and Favorite Quotes Game: Where did the Miracle occur? References in Episode: Declaration AD Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Andrew and Thornton discuss another C.S. Lewis essay set during the beginning years of WWII. Lewis gives an overview of reasoning and the different forms of conscience to explain why he is not a pacifist. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis.

Thornton and a new guest discuss a sermon Lewis preached at the start of WWII. If you've ever wondered how someone could justify learning and pursuing culture in the midst of chaos, Lewis provides a few answers and things to think about. Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis

Taylor and Thornton journey through one of Lewis's best-known works. It's the source of many people's conversion or the rejuvenation of their faith, as Thornton and Taylor can attest.  Episode Outline:  Banter   Background and Context (Broadcasts took place in WWII)  Overview of the Book   Criticisms of the Book   Mentions and References in Popular Culture   Thoughts, Analysis, and Favorite Quotes  Game: Christian Denomination or Not?  References in Episode:  Sixpence None the Richer Name   Nietzsche's Superman  Christian Book March Madness  PBS' Freud and Lewis Lewis in His Own Words  Narnia Statues in Yorkshire  Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis  Special thanks to Jeff Summerville for the intro and outro music Also, if you want a deeper dive into Mere Christianity then check out the Pints with Jack podcast which goes chapter by chapter. 

Taylor and Thornton journey through Lewis's first pure apologetic work. Episode Outline: Banter Background and Context Overview of the Novel Criticisms of the Novel  Mentions and References in Popular Culture Thoughts, Analysis, and Favorite Quotes No game this episode for the sake of time. Trust us, we spared you from the super cheesy one we recorded. References in Episode: Wikipedia - The Problem of Pain Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis  Special thanks to Jeff Summerville for the new intro and outro music

Taylor and Thornton journey through Lewis's first novel after becoming a Christian: The Pilgrim's Regress.  Episode Outline: Background and Context Themes Overview of the Novel Thoughts, Analysis, and Favorite Quotes Criticisms of the Novel Mentions and References in Popular Culture Game References in Episode: Discussion about the Female Personifications - Crystal Hurd Blog Notes and Translations for The Pilgrim's Regress Wikipedia - The Pilgrim's Regress Connect with us on Twitter at @MereCSLewis 

The biography of our favorite Jack with notes on criticisms of his works, references to him today, and a C.S. Lewis game.

Thornton sets sail for the Eastern Seas to explore one of the most beloved—and perhaps most searching—of the Chronicles: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader.Joined by author Katherine Langrish (From Spare Oom to War Drobe), we dive deep into a story that is less a military campaign and more a spiritual pilgrimage. Together they discuss:Personal Memories of Dawn TreaderLewis’s layered storytelling and moral imaginationAslan's character across the Narnia seriesThe thematic depths across NarniaLearn more about Katherine at: https://www.katherinelangrish.co.uk/🍵 Featured Tea: Voyage of the Dawn Treader BlendSet sail with a luminous white tea blend inspired by the Eastern Sea. Notes of white peony, white peach, eternal spring, and orange peel create a bright, hopeful cup—like dawn breaking over Aslan’s Country.You can find the tea at this link.: Adagio Teas: My Signature BlendsIf you enjoyed this episode:⭐ Like, rate, and subscribe🐦 Follow on X & Instagram: @merecslewis📧 Email: merecslewis@gmail.comThornton loves hearing what you’re reading and how Lewis’s works are shaping your journey.

Celebrating this year's CS Lewis Reading day, Thornton discusses this year's theme of "Affection" from The Four Loves with his brother, Taylor. Exploring what affection looks like in today's digital age, these men explore how Lewis’ insights still apply today. 💡🤝❤️Celebrate #CSLewisReadingDay with us as we honor the timeless wisdom of Lewis and the friendships that make life richer! 🎙️📖⁠CS Lewis Reading Day 2025⁠Connect on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠@merecslewis⁠⁠⁠⁠, 'X' aka Twitter at ⁠⁠⁠⁠@MereCSLewis⁠⁠⁠⁠ or email at merecslewis@gmail.com.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Please like, rate, or subscribe.