The Influence of J.R.R. Tolkien on C.S. Lewis in Their Writing Styles and Themes

C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien were not just close friends; they were also influential peers who imported each other#39;s creative thinking and artistic vision. Though their writing styles differed, both authors shared similar themes and ideas, drawing significantly from their deep friendships and shared interests.

Shared Influences

Both C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien were influenced by a variety of shared influences, notably religion, mythopoeic storytelling, and a love for nature. Let#39;s explore these similarities in more detail:

1. Christianity

Christianity: Both authors were devout Christians, and their faith deeply influenced their writing. This is evidenced in their works, such as Tolkien#39;s The Silmarillion and Lewis#39; The Chronicles of Narnia.

2. Mythopoeic Storytelling

Mythopoeic storytelling: Both authors drew from mythology, folklore, and fairy tales. Their works often blended elements from these sources to craft unique worlds. Examples include Tolkien#39;s The Lord of the Rings and Lewis#39; The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.

3. Love of Nature

Love of nature: Both authors appreciated the beauty of the natural world. Tolkien drew inspiration from the landscapes of England and Middle-earth, while Lewis often depicted the enchanting and magical elements of the natural world in Narnia.

Lewis#39; Inspiration from Tolkien

While Tolkien and Lewis shared these influences, they also drew from each other in unique ways. Below are some specific instances of how Tolkien#39;s work inspired Lewis:

1. World-Building

Tolkien#39;s creation of Middle-earth inspired Lewis to create the world of Narnia. Both worlds are meticulously designed with their own histories, cultures, and inhabitants. Lewis#39; Narnia is no less complex and intricate than Tolkien#39;s Middle-earth.

2. Mythological Creatures

Lewis borrowed from Tolkien#39;s love of mythological creatures, such as dragons, centaurs, and unicorns. In The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, for example, Narnia is filled with fantastical creatures and landscapes, similar to those in Tolkien#39;s Middle-earth.

3. Epic Storytelling

Tolkien#39;s The Lord of the Rings epic storytelling style influenced Lewis#39; Chronicles of Narnia. Both series feature epic quests, battles, and the struggle between good and evil. The journeys in Narnia are reminiscent of the adventures in Middle-earth.

Examples

1. The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe vs. The Hobbit

Magical Portals: Both stories feature magical portals: the wardrobe in Narnia and the gate in The Hobbit. Mythical Creatures: Both feature mythical creatures, such as dragons and centaurs, in Narnia and The Hobbit. Epic Quests: The journeys in both stories are epic, with the protagonists striving to complete their quests and save their respective worlds.

Lewis#39; Unique Contributions

While C.S. Lewis certainly drew inspiration from J.R.R. Tolkien, he also made unique contributions, setting his works apart in certain ways:

1. Allegory

Lewis used allegory more extensively in his works. His characters and storylines often carry deeper meanings, with Aslan in Narnia serving as an allegory for Jesus Christ. Tolkien, on the other hand, often used symbolism and metaphor without explicitly making allegorical statements.

2. Accessibility

Lewis#39; writing style was more approachable and accessible for children, while Tolkien#39;s writing was more complex and suitable for a broader audience. This is exemplified in the widespread appeal of The Chronicles of Narnia to children, as opposed to The Lord of the Rings, which is more challenging.

Conclusion

In conclusion, though C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien had distinct styles and worlds, they shared a deep and influential friendship. Their works continue to captivate readers, each adding their unique contributions to the rich tapestry of 20th-century fantasy literature. The legacy of their friendship and collaboration is a testament to the power of shared creativity and mutual inspiration.

References

C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien: A Study of Their Friendship by Colin Duriez The Inklings: C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien and Their Friends by C.S. Lewis Tolkien: A Biography by Joseph Pearce