The Screwtape Letters

Written by C.S. Lewis

A book for adult readers reviewed by Amin

        

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis is a satirical compilation of “letters” with the intention of tempting a “median” soul towards the side of Hell. The main character is Wormwood, a devil who went to a college in Hell. Before and during the events of World War II in Europe, he attempts to win over the soul of an undecided and wavering man who is simply called “The Patient.” Using his uncle Screwtape's advice in the form of letters (Screwtape is a very experienced devil who has caught many souls of his own for the Underworld to enjoy), Wormwood attempts but fails to successfully capture the soul of The Patient. He goes on to learn to repent, enhance his experience with love, and grow closer to his faith.

As a Buddhist, I thoroughly enjoyed this read (which is obviously intended for Christians) thanks to the great writing and storytelling offered by masterclass writer C.S. Lewis. If you are willing to lower boundary-creating differences (ideologically, religiously, philosophically, and what have you), you will be able to reap the most food for thought and knowledge from this book, as well as enjoy it as a cleverly written story. As a tribute to the late J.R.R. Tolkien (one of my favorite authors), it stands the test of time as a worthy homage to the relationship the two authors shared (especially spiritually).