The Literary Lives of the Inklings: J.R.R. Tolkien, C. S. Lewis, Owen Barfield, Charles Williams

• First full biography of the Inklings literary circle
• Explores the spiritual and creative journeys of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and more
• Rich with historical detail, literary insight, and theological reflection
• Reveals how faith shaped some of the 20th century’s greatest literature
• A fascinating gift for fans of Lewis, Tolkien, and Christian storytelling

The Literary  Lives of the Inklings is a masterfully written group biography that brings together the lives, friendships, and spiritual vision of four of the 20th century’s most influential Christian writers: C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, Owen Barfield, and Charles Williams. 

For three decades, these men—known collectively as the Inklings—met weekly in Oxford to discuss literature, theology, and ideas. What began as lively gatherings among friends led to works that would change the literary and spiritual landscape for generations.

In this deeply researched and beautifully told narrative, Philip and Carol Zaleski trace the intellectual and spiritual paths of each Inkling. Readers will follow C.S. Lewis’s unexpected conversion to Christianity, J.R.R. Tolkien’s creation of an epic Catholic mythos in The Lord of the Rings, Barfield’s linguistic philosophy rooted in mystical insight, and Williams’s unique blending of romantic mysticism and poetic vision. 

Together, their stories reveal a shared mission: to restore the place of imagination, beauty, and faith in modern culture.

More than a literary history, The Literary Lives of the Inklings is a testament to the power of friendship, the endurance of truth, and the mystery of divine inspiration.

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