But, said Lewis, myths are lies, even though lies breathed…
““But, said Lewis, myths are lies, even though lies breathed through silver. No, said Tolkien, they are not. ...just as speech is invention about objects and ideas, so myth is invention about truth. We have come from God (continued Tolkien), and inevitably the myths woven by us, though they contain error, will also reflect a splintered fragment of the true light, the eternal truth that is with God. Indeed only by myth-making, only by becoming a 'sub-creator' and inventing stories, can Man aspire to the state of perfection that he knew before the Fall. Our myths may be misguided, but they steer however shakily towards the true harbour, while materialistic 'progress' leads only to a yawning abyss and the Iron Crown of the power of evil. You mean, asked Lewis, that the story of Christ is simply a true myth, a myth that works on us in the same way as the others, but a myth that really happened? In that case, he said, I begin to understand.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Myths, though imperfect, convey fragments of divine truth and guide humanity toward spiritual fulfillment, unlike material progress which leads to emptiness.
In simple terms: Myths carry truth and guide us toward spiritual goals.
Key Takeaway
Embrace myth-making as a path to deeper meaning.
Themes
myth
spirituality
truth
humanity
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
Type
philosophical
inspirational
When to use this quote
- religious education
- creative writing
- personal reflection
- counseling
Key Concepts
theology
literary criticism
philosophy
Questions to Reflect On
- How do we discern truth within myth?
- What role should myth play in modern society?
A Different Perspective
Myths can be misinterpreted and may reinforce harmful ideologies.