‘You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream.’
This is one of my favourite quotes of all time. It proves that nothing is ever impossible, that if you can dream something then why not do it. It is a reminder that there is always another door to open after one shuts behind you.
He enlisted in the First World War in 1917, abandoning his studies at Oxford University in order to do so. In his service, it is known that many of his friends died, and he himself was wounded and ultimately ended his service after one year in 1918. Upon his return, Lewis gained a triple First in three subjects; Honour Moderations (Greek and Latin Literature), English and in the Greats (Philosophy and Ancient History) and became a Fellow and Tutor in English Literature, serving from 1925 to 1954.
Lewis wrote his first book in 1933, entitled The Pilgrim’s Regress. Poorly received by critics, the books was a tale of his own experiences with Christianity. His next book was the first to be welcomed with open arms by the public and critics alike. The Space Trilogy (or The Cosmic Trilogy / The Ransom Trilogy) was a saga intended for adults. Book one, Out of the Silent Planet, was published in 1938 and was written following a conversation with fellow novelist and friend J.R.R. Tolkien. It detailed yet again Lewis’ thoughts on Christianity, adding in this time his interest of science fiction. The saga dealt with human flaws and the two sequels, Perelandra and That Hideous Strength ran on the same themes, and were published in 1943 and 1945 respectively.
Lewis’ Narnia works have been on the lists for top children’s books for many years, and the Narnia stories have also been translated into more than 30 languages. Many TV and stage shows portraying C.S. Lewis’ vivid characters and Narnian Universe have been produced, as well as The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe, Prince Caspian, and The Voyage of the Dawn Treader becoming cinematic adaptations distributed by Walt Disney Pictures.
The success of the Narnia saga especially has set Lewis’ legacy up for the long-haul, and he is not an author that will be forgotten easily.