[Evisse the Blue]

I can understand Tolkien in his dislike for Charles Williams and his disapproval of CS Lewis' 'religious style', which he chose to express in many ways, including in the Narnia Chronicles, which I have not finished because I did not like it. Even if I were a great fan of the Narnia Chronicles and a devout Protestant (I'm actually Christian Orthodox), I would still understand the divergence of opinions: one may have a different literary taste or feel inclination towards a particular kind of religion, given also the family history, etc.

But - what I find quite amazing in terms of intolerance and narrow-mindness is the fact that Tolkien rejected CS Lewis on account of his marrying an American divorcee. His refusal - and indeed, the other Inklings' refusal to accept Joyce, (not only as Lewis' wife/lover, but as an intelligent woman and a worthy partner of discussion) seems to me, well, snobbish (not to say misogynic). I guess some of you will argue I cannot understand about the British intellectual class of that time. This, at least to me, holds little water as an excuse.

Perhaps I am a little biased. I recently read 'A Grief Observed' By Lewis and was moved at his capacity to introspect, with cutting-edge clarity of mind, his own feelings, without falling into the embarassing realm of self-pity. It has been argued that Tolkien, an introvert, somewhat disproved of his friend's extrovert nature and of how he felt so comfortable 'flaunting' his religious beliefs and feelings. That's why I sort of wonder what would have happened if Tolkien would have died before Lewis? Would Lewis have accepted to honour his old friend, in the way that Tolkien didn't? I think he would have.

If anyone knows more than I do on the subject, please add up.