The Christian Imagination: G.K. Chesterton on the Arts

by Thomas C. Peters

Here is a new look at imagination and the arts from the point of view of one of Western civilization's most insightful observers - G.K. Chesterton. Gilbert Chesterton had the rare gift of being able to understand situations from the "inside" - that is, to see through the hidden assumptions, lapses in logic, and other follies of even his own social and occupational situations. He was a journalist, and yet an unsparing critic of journalism. He was a poet, a story-teller, a novelist, a playwright, and an illustrator. Among the most imaginative of men who ever lived, Chesterton had much of value to say about the arts, imagination, and the Christian faith.

Thomas Peters takes the reader on a guided tour of Chesterton's observations and opinions regarding human imagination and its various manifestations in the arts. Using ample quotations in order to let Chesterton speak for himself, Peters explores the master's views on imagination, culture, and faith, as well as his fascinating opinions on everything from styles of painting to meter in poetry, from bohemian lifestyles to materialist philosophy, from singing at the bank to waiting for the train.

Genres: Nonfiction, Theology, Philosophy, Writing, Biography, Cultural, Religion

157 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2000

Reviews

[Jake McAtee · Rating 3 out of 5]

Anytime spent on celebrating GKC's life and legacy is downhill sledding for me, and this was no different. This is a great introduction into the who, what, when, where, and why of GKC. 3 stars due to the tiring structure of quoting GKC at length and then following it with 3 sentence summary of what he said but in a less fun way. Whenever Peter's just wrote and argued his point sans summarization, it was good.

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think I've had this book more than once probably four times now and it is truly marvellous every time. Packed with quotes insights and the sheer joy of Chesterton's Christian vision of life art and culture. Read and re read.

[Matthew · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a serious Chesterton lover, Peters' book is a must have! He has beautifully combined a truly lovely amount of Chesterton's ideas together on the topic of arts and the imagination. Currently there is nothing else in print with this amount of specific focus. Plus, the writing is exceedingly accessible and put together brilliantly. Totally recommended.

[Douglas Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just great.

[Luke Deacon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyed this! GKC has a way of saying things that's just astonishingly insightful and wondrous. Can't wait to read more of his actual works now!

[Deax · Rating 4 out of 5]

Delightful.