We are currently reading the Eros chapter in The Four Loves, so David interviewed Abigail Santamaria about her book concerning Lewis’ wife, Joy Davidman.
S5E21: “Poet, Seeker, and the Woman who captivated C.S. Lewis” – After Hours with Abigail Santamaria (Download)
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Show Notes
Introduction
Quote-of-the-week
Here the whole world (stars, water, air,
Joy Davidman’s Epitaph
And field, and forest, as they were
Reflected in a single mind)
Like cast off clothes was left behind
In ashes, yet with hopes that she,
Re-born from holy poverty,
In lenten lands, hereafter may
Resume them on her Easter Day.
Biographical Information
Abigail Santamaria She earned an MFA in nonfiction writing from Columbia University She has contributed to numerous publications. In 2016, she co-founded “Biography by Design” to help individuals, families and corporations tell their stories in a variety of formats, ranging from custom-crafted books to website narratives. She’s here today because she’s the author of her much-praised biography about Jack’s wife: “Joy: Poet, Seeker, & the Woman Who Captivated C.S. Lewis”.
Biographical Information of Abigail Santamaria
Beverage and Toast
- David was drinking Peppermint Tea
Discussion
1. “The road to Joy”
I gave you a brief introduction, but would you please tell us a little bit more about yourself and how you came to write your book about Joy?
2. “Sources”
How did you go about doing research for your book? What sources were available to you?
3. “Joy’s early life”
Would you mind telling us a little bit about Joy’s family, her childhood and education?
4. “Bill Gresham”
Joy married Bill Gresham in 1942. How did their romance begin?
What was the Gresham marriage like?
5. “Scientology”
For those who are shocked that Joy was a Communist, they’re even more shocked to discover that she was deeply involved in Dianetics! For those who are unfamiliar with the term, what is it and what was Joy’s connection to it?
6. “Christianity and Lewis”
How did her relationship with Lewis begin and develop?
7. “Marriage Breakdown”
How did Joy’s marriage to Bill finally come to an end?
8. “Cancer”
Joy had never had great health. What kind of issues did she have and how did it all come to a head?
9. “Developing Feelings”
What changed to cause Lewis to fall in love with Joy?
10. “Always Controversial”
Joy received a mixed reception among Lewis’ friends, and that trend continues today among C.S. Lewis scholars. Why is that the case and what do you think is a balanced assessment of Joy’s character?
11. “Madeleine L’Engle”
As we begin to draw things to a close, can you tell us about you Madeleine L’Engle project?
