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Aslan's Breath: Seeing the Holy Spirit in Narnia
In the seven volumes of The Chronicles of Narnia, C.S. Lewis represents God the Father as the Emperor-over-the-sea and depicts God the Son as Aslan. But Lewis believed in a triune God―one God in the three persons. Is the Third Person of the Trinity to be found in Narnia? Aslan’s Breath answers with a resounding “Yes,” and then demonstrates from the stories themselves that the Holy Spirit is present throughout Narnia in complex and beautiful ways. Return to Narnia, and reflect on the imagery of the Breath of Aslan―not in an academic or esoteric way―but in a readable book that goes further up and further in, exploring the implications and applications of the Breath to the spiritual formation of those fortunate enough to find themselves between the paws of the True Aslan.
- GenresChristian
128 pages, Paperback
Published March 6, 2024
About the author
Matthew Dickerson
40 books76 followersMatthew Dickerson (PhD, Cornell University) is a professor at Middlebury College in Vermont, a writer, the former director of the New England Young Writers’ Conference at Bread Loaf and the current co-director of the Northern Pen Young Writers' Conference. His previous works include fantasy novels The Gifted and The Betrayed; works about fantasy including From Homer to Harry Potter along with Narnia and the Fields of Arbol: The Environmental Vision of C. S. Lewis, A Hobbit Journey, and Ents, Elves, and Eriador: The Environmental Vision of J. R .R. Tolkien; some medieval historic romance including The Rood and the Torc; and even philosophy of mind and computation The Mind and the Machine: What it Means to be Human and Why it Matters.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
April 14, 2024
The author names at the outset that this was a work he preferred to complete in his own interaction with the Chronicles rather than including extensive scholarly research related to the third person of the Trinity in the CoN. I get that, but it made me a little sad, and feel a little bit like I was entering into a very safe experiment, without anybody else to challenge or verify our observations.
I appreciated the orderly and thematic exploration of Aslan's breath (and anointing kiss) through each of the seven books, and don't really question the claim that these things do function as an equivalent to the Holy Spirit in Narnia. But I didn't feel particularly gladdened by the fact, and often felt like we were dissecting what was meant to be experienced (the story) into nearly categorized boxes of trinitarian theology.
I wish I didn't feel that. Nevertheless, I did. I blame Michael Ward's Planet Narnia, which I think is a much richer exploration of themes, structures, and "donegality" in the series--richer in substance and research, but also in recognition of meaningful moments and threads throughout the Chronicles that CAN be named, but are better (and designed to be) experienced.
Planet Narnia woke me up to hidden beauty and drove me back to the books. Aslan's Breath made me wish I had just read the introduction and then looked for the Lion's breath myself, the next time through the seven.
OH!! but Ned Bustard's illustrations? I want them all!
I appreciated the orderly and thematic exploration of Aslan's breath (and anointing kiss) through each of the seven books, and don't really question the claim that these things do function as an equivalent to the Holy Spirit in Narnia. But I didn't feel particularly gladdened by the fact, and often felt like we were dissecting what was meant to be experienced (the story) into nearly categorized boxes of trinitarian theology.
I wish I didn't feel that. Nevertheless, I did. I blame Michael Ward's Planet Narnia, which I think is a much richer exploration of themes, structures, and "donegality" in the series--richer in substance and research, but also in recognition of meaningful moments and threads throughout the Chronicles that CAN be named, but are better (and designed to be) experienced.
Planet Narnia woke me up to hidden beauty and drove me back to the books. Aslan's Breath made me wish I had just read the introduction and then looked for the Lion's breath myself, the next time through the seven.
OH!! but Ned Bustard's illustrations? I want them all!
December 3, 2024
An excellent reflection on the Holy Spirit in Narnia
May 5, 2024
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect
In Aslan’s Breath, Matthew Dickerson ventures into each of the seven Chronicles of Narnia, examining references to the breath of Aslan. These are the subject of his study, because of a theory: Aslan’s breath is the depiction of the Holy Spirit in Narnia. Aslan’s Breath draws on the act of Aslan breathing, as well as references to Aslan’s kisses, considering not only the isolated action, but also its effect on the characters. With frequent references to Scripture, as well, Dickerson’s work is partially commentary and partially devotional, pointing to the nearness and relational-ness of the Holy Spirit.
Consisting of an introduction plus a chapter for each of the chronicles, the short book is 8 chapters long and just shy of 140 pages. It’s also accompanied by the imaginative illustrations of Ned Bustard. These bits of artwork bring the events of the books to life with a different style than the illustrations in the Chronicles. They feel a bit earthier to me.
What I Liked
Tone
Dickerson’s writing is very conversational—reading more as personal reflection (albeit before an audience) than as a dense work of academia. I enjoyed the honest personable remarks guiding the commentary. For instance, at one point in the introduction, preceding an explanation of what the remainder of the section will cover, he writes, “And that’s all readers need to know from this introduction. Feel free to jump to Chapter 1 (as though stepping directly into Narnia through a wardrobe or picture frame” (p.12).
I appreciate the permission to jump forward, and I also like his pulling on Narnian imagery. The conversational tone continues in other chapters, when Dickerson writes about how he could end a discussion at a certain place, but then explains that he’s chosen not to. I enjoyed being in conversation with Dickerson, and with the text. As the introduction explains, Aslan’s Breath is not an academic work that surveys extant commentary. Rather, it’s a good deal of observation—often paired with writing from Eugene Peterson. (Towards the end of the book, Dickerson explains how this pairing came about, unintentionally).
For me, the conversational tone was especially effective because of the subject matter. Narnia is so close to my heart, and not a book series that I would like to read about in an overly-intellectualized way.
Truths
While I didn’t agree with everything the author had to say (more on that below), I found much of the book to be beautifully refreshing in its commentary on the truths in the Narnia series. Something I frequently mention is that God uses story, so powerfully, to speak to me. It was very pleasant to sit with these truths, with Dickerson, in his unpacking of the stories and of the role of Aslan’s breath.
Dickerson patterns the book with a back-and-forth conversation between Narnia and the Scriptures, delving into each so as to draw out the parallels. This brings grounding to the commentary in its delightful meditations on the truths to be found in Narnia. In some ways, the book reads like a devotional. Dickerson makes it clear that his pursuit is not merely intellectual, nor is he observing for the mere sake of observation.
Rather, I would say that Dickerson’s goal is to draw the reader “further up and further in”– in relationship with the Holy Spirit. Dickerson draws out meaning from the work of Aslan’s breath, throughout the text. One of the author’s significant, key, points, is that the Holy Spirit is a deeply personal God. I think that is my main takeaway from Aslan’s Breath.
Favorites
The details of our lives are the stuff of God’s creation. So often, however, we see only the terrifying things in front of us. We don’t focus on the goodness of daily life, but on the things that make us afraid or anxious.
p. 77
Dickerson is discussing Jill’s journey on Aslan’s breath in The Silver Chair, and argues that it is because she is so high up that she is able to enjoy the journey. In closer proximity to the things over which she flew, she may have had a much scarier trip. Thus Dickerson’s discussion on proximity and focus in the things that we are afraid of.
As someone who struggles with anxiousness, I found this quote to be a beautiful reminder for my day-to-day life concerning the things that feel overwhelming to me.
The Holy Spirit is, indeed, the presence of God with us at all times, including the darkest times. Through all the scenes and moments of our long episodic journey of life.
p. 63
What I like about this quote, in addition to the reminder about His nearness, is the description of our life as “episodic.” I agree with this descriptor, and found the surrounding discussion to be thought-provoking.
Respectful Discussion
Dickerson critiques one of Aslan’s actions as not “seem[ing] Christ-like” (p. 85). While I appreciate the author’s desire to honestly evaluate the actions of someone who is representing Jesus, I don’t agree with his conclusion: namely that Lewis, in portraying Aslan as vengeful (in a scene with Eustace’s bullies in The Silver Chair) may be infusing the story with a personal desire for retribution. (Dickerson mentions that young Jack Lewis had his own experiences with school yard bullies).
Dickerson acknowledges that readers may disagree with his assertion and doesn’t seem to dwell overly long on the scene.
However, on the last page of the book, Dickerson returns to the same foundational argument, asserting that the Holy Spirit “call[s] us to gentleness,” rather than “speak[ing] of gentleness as an old-fashioned virtue that can be cast aside when it no longer seems to gain us power” (138). (This argument is phrased as a rhetorical question, with Dickerson clearly favoring the “call to gentleness”).
Dickerson has already acknowledged that Aslan is not always gentle, so it does not make sense that this idea appears in a conclusion that is drawing on the truths gleaned from Narnia.
I note this, not because of the argumentative inconsistency, but because I don’t endorse his argument that the Holy Spirit always directs us to gentleness.
While I agree with Dickerson that gentleness isn’t something we choose or decline on the basis of personal preference, I disagree with the idea that the Holy Spirit will always call us to “gentleness.” My concern with this line of thinking is that the pursuit of “gentleness” can actually inhibit discernment. There are things the Lord calls us to say “no” to, and that does not always align with our understanding of gentleness.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect
In Aslan’s Breath, Matthew Dickerson ventures into each of the seven Chronicles of Narnia, examining references to the breath of Aslan. These are the subject of his study, because of a theory: Aslan’s breath is the depiction of the Holy Spirit in Narnia. Aslan’s Breath draws on the act of Aslan breathing, as well as references to Aslan’s kisses, considering not only the isolated action, but also its effect on the characters. With frequent references to Scripture, as well, Dickerson’s work is partially commentary and partially devotional, pointing to the nearness and relational-ness of the Holy Spirit.
Consisting of an introduction plus a chapter for each of the chronicles, the short book is 8 chapters long and just shy of 140 pages. It’s also accompanied by the imaginative illustrations of Ned Bustard. These bits of artwork bring the events of the books to life with a different style than the illustrations in the Chronicles. They feel a bit earthier to me.
What I Liked
Tone
Dickerson’s writing is very conversational—reading more as personal reflection (albeit before an audience) than as a dense work of academia. I enjoyed the honest personable remarks guiding the commentary. For instance, at one point in the introduction, preceding an explanation of what the remainder of the section will cover, he writes, “And that’s all readers need to know from this introduction. Feel free to jump to Chapter 1 (as though stepping directly into Narnia through a wardrobe or picture frame” (p.12).
I appreciate the permission to jump forward, and I also like his pulling on Narnian imagery. The conversational tone continues in other chapters, when Dickerson writes about how he could end a discussion at a certain place, but then explains that he’s chosen not to. I enjoyed being in conversation with Dickerson, and with the text. As the introduction explains, Aslan’s Breath is not an academic work that surveys extant commentary. Rather, it’s a good deal of observation—often paired with writing from Eugene Peterson. (Towards the end of the book, Dickerson explains how this pairing came about, unintentionally).
For me, the conversational tone was especially effective because of the subject matter. Narnia is so close to my heart, and not a book series that I would like to read about in an overly-intellectualized way.
Truths
While I didn’t agree with everything the author had to say (more on that below), I found much of the book to be beautifully refreshing in its commentary on the truths in the Narnia series. Something I frequently mention is that God uses story, so powerfully, to speak to me. It was very pleasant to sit with these truths, with Dickerson, in his unpacking of the stories and of the role of Aslan’s breath.
Dickerson patterns the book with a back-and-forth conversation between Narnia and the Scriptures, delving into each so as to draw out the parallels. This brings grounding to the commentary in its delightful meditations on the truths to be found in Narnia. In some ways, the book reads like a devotional. Dickerson makes it clear that his pursuit is not merely intellectual, nor is he observing for the mere sake of observation.
Rather, I would say that Dickerson’s goal is to draw the reader “further up and further in”– in relationship with the Holy Spirit. Dickerson draws out meaning from the work of Aslan’s breath, throughout the text. One of the author’s significant, key, points, is that the Holy Spirit is a deeply personal God. I think that is my main takeaway from Aslan’s Breath.
Favorites
The details of our lives are the stuff of God’s creation. So often, however, we see only the terrifying things in front of us. We don’t focus on the goodness of daily life, but on the things that make us afraid or anxious.
p. 77
Dickerson is discussing Jill’s journey on Aslan’s breath in The Silver Chair, and argues that it is because she is so high up that she is able to enjoy the journey. In closer proximity to the things over which she flew, she may have had a much scarier trip. Thus Dickerson’s discussion on proximity and focus in the things that we are afraid of.
As someone who struggles with anxiousness, I found this quote to be a beautiful reminder for my day-to-day life concerning the things that feel overwhelming to me.
The Holy Spirit is, indeed, the presence of God with us at all times, including the darkest times. Through all the scenes and moments of our long episodic journey of life.
p. 63
What I like about this quote, in addition to the reminder about His nearness, is the description of our life as “episodic.” I agree with this descriptor, and found the surrounding discussion to be thought-provoking.
Respectful Discussion
Dickerson critiques one of Aslan’s actions as not “seem[ing] Christ-like” (p. 85). While I appreciate the author’s desire to honestly evaluate the actions of someone who is representing Jesus, I don’t agree with his conclusion: namely that Lewis, in portraying Aslan as vengeful (in a scene with Eustace’s bullies in The Silver Chair) may be infusing the story with a personal desire for retribution. (Dickerson mentions that young Jack Lewis had his own experiences with school yard bullies).
Dickerson acknowledges that readers may disagree with his assertion and doesn’t seem to dwell overly long on the scene.
However, on the last page of the book, Dickerson returns to the same foundational argument, asserting that the Holy Spirit “call[s] us to gentleness,” rather than “speak[ing] of gentleness as an old-fashioned virtue that can be cast aside when it no longer seems to gain us power” (138). (This argument is phrased as a rhetorical question, with Dickerson clearly favoring the “call to gentleness”).
Dickerson has already acknowledged that Aslan is not always gentle, so it does not make sense that this idea appears in a conclusion that is drawing on the truths gleaned from Narnia.
I note this, not because of the argumentative inconsistency, but because I don’t endorse his argument that the Holy Spirit always directs us to gentleness.
While I agree with Dickerson that gentleness isn’t something we choose or decline on the basis of personal preference, I disagree with the idea that the Holy Spirit will always call us to “gentleness.” My concern with this line of thinking is that the pursuit of “gentleness” can actually inhibit discernment. There are things the Lord calls us to say “no” to, and that does not always align with our understanding of gentleness.
Recommendation Status
Overall, I very much enjoyed, and was blessed by, Aslan’s Breath. I liked following Dickerson’s travels through each of The Chronicles, and I appreciated that he discussed an important facet that has been largely overlooked. In particular, I appreciated the discussions about the Holy Spirit empowering us in response to fear, and the huge emphasis on the Holy Spirit as our deeply personal God.
Reader discretion recommended due to the discussion on gentleness– and the implications of this argument.
Recommendation Status
Overall, I very much enjoyed, and was blessed by, Aslan’s Breath. I liked following Dickerson’s travels through each of The Chronicles, and I appreciated that he discussed an important facet that has been largely overlooked. In particular, I appreciated the discussions about the Holy Spirit empowering us in response to fear, and the huge emphasis on the Holy Spirit as our deeply personal God.
Reader discretion recommended due to the discussion on gentleness– and the implications of this argument.
What to Expect
In Aslan’s Breath, Matthew Dickerson ventures into each of the seven Chronicles of Narnia, examining references to the breath of Aslan. These are the subject of his study, because of a theory: Aslan’s breath is the depiction of the Holy Spirit in Narnia. Aslan’s Breath draws on the act of Aslan breathing, as well as references to Aslan’s kisses, considering not only the isolated action, but also its effect on the characters. With frequent references to Scripture, as well, Dickerson’s work is partially commentary and partially devotional, pointing to the nearness and relational-ness of the Holy Spirit.
Consisting of an introduction plus a chapter for each of the chronicles, the short book is 8 chapters long and just shy of 140 pages. It’s also accompanied by the imaginative illustrations of Ned Bustard. These bits of artwork bring the events of the books to life with a different style than the illustrations in the Chronicles. They feel a bit earthier to me.
What I Liked
Tone
Dickerson’s writing is very conversational—reading more as personal reflection (albeit before an audience) than as a dense work of academia. I enjoyed the honest personable remarks guiding the commentary. For instance, at one point in the introduction, preceding an explanation of what the remainder of the section will cover, he writes, “And that’s all readers need to know from this introduction. Feel free to jump to Chapter 1 (as though stepping directly into Narnia through a wardrobe or picture frame” (p.12).
I appreciate the permission to jump forward, and I also like his pulling on Narnian imagery. The conversational tone continues in other chapters, when Dickerson writes about how he could end a discussion at a certain place, but then explains that he’s chosen not to. I enjoyed being in conversation with Dickerson, and with the text. As the introduction explains, Aslan’s Breath is not an academic work that surveys extant commentary. Rather, it’s a good deal of observation—often paired with writing from Eugene Peterson. (Towards the end of the book, Dickerson explains how this pairing came about, unintentionally).
For me, the conversational tone was especially effective because of the subject matter. Narnia is so close to my heart, and not a book series that I would like to read about in an overly-intellectualized way.
Truths
While I didn’t agree with everything the author had to say (more on that below), I found much of the book to be beautifully refreshing in its commentary on the truths in the Narnia series. Something I frequently mention is that God uses story, so powerfully, to speak to me. It was very pleasant to sit with these truths, with Dickerson, in his unpacking of the stories and of the role of Aslan’s breath.
Dickerson patterns the book with a back-and-forth conversation between Narnia and the Scriptures, delving into each so as to draw out the parallels. This brings grounding to the commentary in its delightful meditations on the truths to be found in Narnia. In some ways, the book reads like a devotional. Dickerson makes it clear that his pursuit is not merely intellectual, nor is he observing for the mere sake of observation.
Rather, I would say that Dickerson’s goal is to draw the reader “further up and further in”– in relationship with the Holy Spirit. Dickerson draws out meaning from the work of Aslan’s breath, throughout the text. One of the author’s significant, key, points, is that the Holy Spirit is a deeply personal God. I think that is my main takeaway from Aslan’s Breath.
Favorites
The details of our lives are the stuff of God’s creation. So often, however, we see only the terrifying things in front of us. We don’t focus on the goodness of daily life, but on the things that make us afraid or anxious.
p. 77
Dickerson is discussing Jill’s journey on Aslan’s breath in The Silver Chair, and argues that it is because she is so high up that she is able to enjoy the journey. In closer proximity to the things over which she flew, she may have had a much scarier trip. Thus Dickerson’s discussion on proximity and focus in the things that we are afraid of.
As someone who struggles with anxiousness, I found this quote to be a beautiful reminder for my day-to-day life concerning the things that feel overwhelming to me.
The Holy Spirit is, indeed, the presence of God with us at all times, including the darkest times. Through all the scenes and moments of our long episodic journey of life.
p. 63
What I like about this quote, in addition to the reminder about His nearness, is the description of our life as “episodic.” I agree with this descriptor, and found the surrounding discussion to be thought-provoking.
Respectful Discussion
Dickerson critiques one of Aslan’s actions as not “seem[ing] Christ-like” (p. 85). While I appreciate the author’s desire to honestly evaluate the actions of someone who is representing Jesus, I don’t agree with his conclusion: namely that Lewis, in portraying Aslan as vengeful (in a scene with Eustace’s bullies in The Silver Chair) may be infusing the story with a personal desire for retribution. (Dickerson mentions that young Jack Lewis had his own experiences with school yard bullies).
Dickerson acknowledges that readers may disagree with his assertion and doesn’t seem to dwell overly long on the scene.
However, on the last page of the book, Dickerson returns to the same foundational argument, asserting that the Holy Spirit “call[s] us to gentleness,” rather than “speak[ing] of gentleness as an old-fashioned virtue that can be cast aside when it no longer seems to gain us power” (138). (This argument is phrased as a rhetorical question, with Dickerson clearly favoring the “call to gentleness”).
Dickerson has already acknowledged that Aslan is not always gentle, so it does not make sense that this idea appears in a conclusion that is drawing on the truths gleaned from Narnia.
I note this, not because of the argumentative inconsistency, but because I don’t endorse his argument that the Holy Spirit always directs us to gentleness.
While I agree with Dickerson that gentleness isn’t something we choose or decline on the basis of personal preference, I disagree with the idea that the Holy Spirit will always call us to “gentleness.” My concern with this line of thinking is that the pursuit of “gentleness” can actually inhibit discernment. There are things the Lord calls us to say “no” to, and that does not always align with our understanding of gentleness.
Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher. Opinions expressed are my own.
What to Expect
In Aslan’s Breath, Matthew Dickerson ventures into each of the seven Chronicles of Narnia, examining references to the breath of Aslan. These are the subject of his study, because of a theory: Aslan’s breath is the depiction of the Holy Spirit in Narnia. Aslan’s Breath draws on the act of Aslan breathing, as well as references to Aslan’s kisses, considering not only the isolated action, but also its effect on the characters. With frequent references to Scripture, as well, Dickerson’s work is partially commentary and partially devotional, pointing to the nearness and relational-ness of the Holy Spirit.
Consisting of an introduction plus a chapter for each of the chronicles, the short book is 8 chapters long and just shy of 140 pages. It’s also accompanied by the imaginative illustrations of Ned Bustard. These bits of artwork bring the events of the books to life with a different style than the illustrations in the Chronicles. They feel a bit earthier to me.
What I Liked
Tone
Dickerson’s writing is very conversational—reading more as personal reflection (albeit before an audience) than as a dense work of academia. I enjoyed the honest personable remarks guiding the commentary. For instance, at one point in the introduction, preceding an explanation of what the remainder of the section will cover, he writes, “And that’s all readers need to know from this introduction. Feel free to jump to Chapter 1 (as though stepping directly into Narnia through a wardrobe or picture frame” (p.12).
I appreciate the permission to jump forward, and I also like his pulling on Narnian imagery. The conversational tone continues in other chapters, when Dickerson writes about how he could end a discussion at a certain place, but then explains that he’s chosen not to. I enjoyed being in conversation with Dickerson, and with the text. As the introduction explains, Aslan’s Breath is not an academic work that surveys extant commentary. Rather, it’s a good deal of observation—often paired with writing from Eugene Peterson. (Towards the end of the book, Dickerson explains how this pairing came about, unintentionally).
For me, the conversational tone was especially effective because of the subject matter. Narnia is so close to my heart, and not a book series that I would like to read about in an overly-intellectualized way.
Truths
While I didn’t agree with everything the author had to say (more on that below), I found much of the book to be beautifully refreshing in its commentary on the truths in the Narnia series. Something I frequently mention is that God uses story, so powerfully, to speak to me. It was very pleasant to sit with these truths, with Dickerson, in his unpacking of the stories and of the role of Aslan’s breath.
Dickerson patterns the book with a back-and-forth conversation between Narnia and the Scriptures, delving into each so as to draw out the parallels. This brings grounding to the commentary in its delightful meditations on the truths to be found in Narnia. In some ways, the book reads like a devotional. Dickerson makes it clear that his pursuit is not merely intellectual, nor is he observing for the mere sake of observation.
Rather, I would say that Dickerson’s goal is to draw the reader “further up and further in”– in relationship with the Holy Spirit. Dickerson draws out meaning from the work of Aslan’s breath, throughout the text. One of the author’s significant, key, points, is that the Holy Spirit is a deeply personal God. I think that is my main takeaway from Aslan’s Breath.
Favorites
The details of our lives are the stuff of God’s creation. So often, however, we see only the terrifying things in front of us. We don’t focus on the goodness of daily life, but on the things that make us afraid or anxious.
p. 77
Dickerson is discussing Jill’s journey on Aslan’s breath in The Silver Chair, and argues that it is because she is so high up that she is able to enjoy the journey. In closer proximity to the things over which she flew, she may have had a much scarier trip. Thus Dickerson’s discussion on proximity and focus in the things that we are afraid of.
As someone who struggles with anxiousness, I found this quote to be a beautiful reminder for my day-to-day life concerning the things that feel overwhelming to me.
The Holy Spirit is, indeed, the presence of God with us at all times, including the darkest times. Through all the scenes and moments of our long episodic journey of life.
p. 63
What I like about this quote, in addition to the reminder about His nearness, is the description of our life as “episodic.” I agree with this descriptor, and found the surrounding discussion to be thought-provoking.
Respectful Discussion
Dickerson critiques one of Aslan’s actions as not “seem[ing] Christ-like” (p. 85). While I appreciate the author’s desire to honestly evaluate the actions of someone who is representing Jesus, I don’t agree with his conclusion: namely that Lewis, in portraying Aslan as vengeful (in a scene with Eustace’s bullies in The Silver Chair) may be infusing the story with a personal desire for retribution. (Dickerson mentions that young Jack Lewis had his own experiences with school yard bullies).
Dickerson acknowledges that readers may disagree with his assertion and doesn’t seem to dwell overly long on the scene.
However, on the last page of the book, Dickerson returns to the same foundational argument, asserting that the Holy Spirit “call[s] us to gentleness,” rather than “speak[ing] of gentleness as an old-fashioned virtue that can be cast aside when it no longer seems to gain us power” (138). (This argument is phrased as a rhetorical question, with Dickerson clearly favoring the “call to gentleness”).
Dickerson has already acknowledged that Aslan is not always gentle, so it does not make sense that this idea appears in a conclusion that is drawing on the truths gleaned from Narnia.
I note this, not because of the argumentative inconsistency, but because I don’t endorse his argument that the Holy Spirit always directs us to gentleness.
While I agree with Dickerson that gentleness isn’t something we choose or decline on the basis of personal preference, I disagree with the idea that the Holy Spirit will always call us to “gentleness.” My concern with this line of thinking is that the pursuit of “gentleness” can actually inhibit discernment. There are things the Lord calls us to say “no” to, and that does not always align with our understanding of gentleness.
Recommendation Status
Overall, I very much enjoyed, and was blessed by, Aslan’s Breath. I liked following Dickerson’s travels through each of The Chronicles, and I appreciated that he discussed an important facet that has been largely overlooked. In particular, I appreciated the discussions about the Holy Spirit empowering us in response to fear, and the huge emphasis on the Holy Spirit as our deeply personal God.
Reader discretion recommended due to the discussion on gentleness– and the implications of this argument.
Recommendation Status
Overall, I very much enjoyed, and was blessed by, Aslan’s Breath. I liked following Dickerson’s travels through each of The Chronicles, and I appreciated that he discussed an important facet that has been largely overlooked. In particular, I appreciated the discussions about the Holy Spirit empowering us in response to fear, and the huge emphasis on the Holy Spirit as our deeply personal God.
Reader discretion recommended due to the discussion on gentleness– and the implications of this argument.
July 26, 2025
This short book was a thoroughly delightful exploration of symbolism for the Holy Spirit within the Chronicles of Narnia. Written by a literature professor and Narnia lover, it goes through each of the seven books to analyze particular scenes. I read it piecemeal, after finishing each book of the Narnia series. It was encouraging, convicting, and brimming with appreciation for a truly magical series. I highly recommend it to other Narnia fans!
October 15, 2024
I wish more literary criticism was this focused on enriching the life of the reader. I so often read a work of literary analysis and am left thinking, “so what?” Not so with Aslan’s Breath. Dickerson explores, novel by novel, how the Narnia stories can enrich the way we know the Spirit through our imagination. Drawing much inspiration from Eugene Petersen, Dickerson draws out the subtle and beautiful ways in which the presence of Aslan’s breath in Narnia draws us to contemplate the presence of the spirit in the world and in our lives. In an age so dominated by the “hermeneutics of suspicion” Dickerson offers a reading of Lewis’ books that, rather than inviting us to dismiss the novels or turning them into scapegoats for all our social ills, actually makes us love the books even more and want to reread them. He discusses many of the most moving and memorable passages from the Narnia tales (such as the undragoning of Eustace, Shasta in the mountain pass, and the conversion of Emeth), and he reveals how the Holy Spirit is at work deep in the fabric of these stories. I read a lot of smart books about other books, but I rarely encounter a work of criticism that is not only smart but also wise. There is much wisdom in Aslan’s Breath. I highly recommend this book for any perpetual reader of The Chronicles of Narnia.
November 24, 2025
Aslan's Breath: Seeing the Holy Spirit in Narnia, with illustrations by Ned Bustard, is a thoughtful, illuminating exploration of C.S. Lewis’s spiritual vision. Beyond the familiar tales of adventure and wonder, Dickerson guides readers to recognize the often overlooked presence of the Holy Spirit the Third Person of the Trinity woven throughout Narnia.
The book is both accessible and profound. Dickerson doesn’t merely analyze; he invites reflection, helping readers understand how the “Breath of Aslan” functions as a guide for spiritual formation. With vivid illustrations that complement the text, the work encourages a deeper engagement with Lewis’s classic narratives, showing how faith, morality, and divine inspiration shape the characters and the world they inhabit.
Whether you’re a longtime Narnia fan, a student of Christian spirituality, or someone looking to connect literary imagination with theological insight, Aslan’s Breath offers a fresh lens through which to experience the beloved series. It’s contemplative, readable, and spiritually enriching, bridging the gap between story and sacred symbolism.
The book is both accessible and profound. Dickerson doesn’t merely analyze; he invites reflection, helping readers understand how the “Breath of Aslan” functions as a guide for spiritual formation. With vivid illustrations that complement the text, the work encourages a deeper engagement with Lewis’s classic narratives, showing how faith, morality, and divine inspiration shape the characters and the world they inhabit.
Whether you’re a longtime Narnia fan, a student of Christian spirituality, or someone looking to connect literary imagination with theological insight, Aslan’s Breath offers a fresh lens through which to experience the beloved series. It’s contemplative, readable, and spiritually enriching, bridging the gap between story and sacred symbolism.
March 15, 2026
I really loved the idea behind this book, but I felt like I could have read a brief essay on the topic (or maybe watched his talk) and then just looked for the examples of the Holy Spirit in the Narnia stories myself. Dickerson’s declaration that he “resisted drawing from the wealth of excellent scholarship on CS Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia” makes reading this book feel like going along with the author’s personal experimental musings, which was an interesting type of book to read. It still had many beautiful, inspiring moments. I don’t regret reading it, and it certainly did add to my recent experience of rereading the Chronicles; I just won’t necessarily be recommending this for all to read.
January 30, 2025
I loved the woodcut illustrations. But for some reason I found this book a real slog to get through. Occasionally there was a moment when the book sang, but by and large I found it difficult to connect with.
The breath of the Holy Spirit is often symbolised for Dickerson through the kiss or the lick of Aslan, similar to the anointing of Saul by Samuel with oil and a kiss.
There are two Greek words for magic: goeteia (witchcraft, sorcery or necromancy) and magia (which is more about the spiritual qualities of nature).
The breath of the Holy Spirit is often symbolised for Dickerson through the kiss or the lick of Aslan, similar to the anointing of Saul by Samuel with oil and a kiss.
There are two Greek words for magic: goeteia (witchcraft, sorcery or necromancy) and magia (which is more about the spiritual qualities of nature).
February 10, 2025
I love the Chronicles of Narnia, and it's clear that Matthew Dickerson does, too. His theory works, that Aslan's breath is the picture of the Holy Spirit in Narnia. I enjoyed how the chapters of this book were laid out by each of the Narnia books (publication order, of course!), and the richness of the insights deepened as the book went along, much like the books themselves grow richer as they move forward. The final chapter about The Last Battle was one of my favorites and gave me some new things to ponder about Lewis and how God works.
January 11, 2024
Concise, clever discussion about something I never considered in The Chronicles of Narnia. Which is saying a lot given how much Inklings scholarship I read.
January 11, 2026
Just when we think that everything to be said about C.S. Lewis has been said and any further discussion continues to repeat things that were said decades ago, we find still another book about Lewis’s popular works. Worse is when an author speculates and reads into Lewis something that he never said nor intended to say. Matthew Dickerson’s book violates neither of those transgressions. This is both a new look into the well-read and often-analyzed Narnia series and a refreshing acknowledgement that such a look needs to avoid the eisegesis so commonly deployed. Starting in the first chapter, “Transforming Power”, where he reviews elements of The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe, Dickerson states, “We must be careful not to put more into symbols than is there, which means not to see as symbolic or metaphorical something which in fact does not signify more than itself.” He is true to this approach throughout the book.
Whether Lewis intentionally drew on elements of the Holy Spirit as he wrote the series – in a way similar to the thesis that each of the stories represents a planet as suggested by Michael Ward in his book Planet Narnia – is impossible to know. Dickerson acknowledges this. It seems less likely that Lewis had a grand design to weave the Holy Spirit into the stories. It is rather more likely that Lewis’s overwhelmingly Christian perspective as shown in his works written after conversion influenced the images he presented. In other words, a Christian writer can’t help but infuse his perspective into his work. As Dorothy L. Sayers wrote, Christians doing secular work “should find its proper exercise and delight and so fulfill itself to the glory of God.” Her friend Lewis lived by this. By doing this work outside of overt theological themes, we don’t know if Lewis intentionally introduced the Holy Spirit; we do know that he would get past inhibitions of accepting Christian themes to “steal past those watchful dragons”.
Taking each of the seven Narnia stories, thankfully in the order in which they were published, Dickerson exposes the imaginative expression that is so typical of Lewis. He walks us through a systematic perspective of seeing the Third Person of the Trinity at work. Throughout the book, Dickerson evokes both images and words to support the notion that Lewis, perhaps simply because of his own Christian perspective, has in his own way evoked the attributes of the Holy Spirit: comfort, strength, courage. In every chapter, as he addresses images that Lewis brings that could point to the Holy Spirit, Dickerson draws on Scripture to illustrate his points. This connection between the Narnia stories and the Bible – both Old and New Testament – supports the thesis that we can draw images of the Holy Spirit from Lewis’s stories.
Aslan’s Breath, though not expressly a theological work, also brings out key doctrinal themes. For example, addressing the claim by some that Lewis was a universalist, Dickerson makes a strong case in the context of The Last Battle that Lewis illustrates a doctrine of salvation by grace (his emphasis) rather than salvation by doctrinal conformity. Repeatedly, we see that it is the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that does the work.
"We could write many books just on the biblical principle of spiritual renewal and transformation, apart from our exploration of the Narnia stories. God desires to transform and renew [H]is people. His people should desire that transformation. Yet we cannot accomplish this by our own effort. We cannot transform ourselves any more than we can bring about our own salvation, any more than the stone statues could transform themselves back to flesh, it took the breath of Aslan. The power of Aslan." (p.36)
Although the reader familiar with Lewis’s stories can read this book on its own, it may be best used as a study guide for the series. Reading each of Lewis’s stories followed by the corresponding chapter in Dickerson’s book would provide a rich approach to seeing the Holy Spirit in Lewis’s work. Having a Bible handy for cross references to Dicker’s citations will make it even richer. In any event, those who appreciate seeing Christ in Aslan and God the Father in the Emperor-beyond-the-Sea will appreciate seeing the Holy Spirit in Aslan’s Breath.
Whether Lewis intentionally drew on elements of the Holy Spirit as he wrote the series – in a way similar to the thesis that each of the stories represents a planet as suggested by Michael Ward in his book Planet Narnia – is impossible to know. Dickerson acknowledges this. It seems less likely that Lewis had a grand design to weave the Holy Spirit into the stories. It is rather more likely that Lewis’s overwhelmingly Christian perspective as shown in his works written after conversion influenced the images he presented. In other words, a Christian writer can’t help but infuse his perspective into his work. As Dorothy L. Sayers wrote, Christians doing secular work “should find its proper exercise and delight and so fulfill itself to the glory of God.” Her friend Lewis lived by this. By doing this work outside of overt theological themes, we don’t know if Lewis intentionally introduced the Holy Spirit; we do know that he would get past inhibitions of accepting Christian themes to “steal past those watchful dragons”.
Taking each of the seven Narnia stories, thankfully in the order in which they were published, Dickerson exposes the imaginative expression that is so typical of Lewis. He walks us through a systematic perspective of seeing the Third Person of the Trinity at work. Throughout the book, Dickerson evokes both images and words to support the notion that Lewis, perhaps simply because of his own Christian perspective, has in his own way evoked the attributes of the Holy Spirit: comfort, strength, courage. In every chapter, as he addresses images that Lewis brings that could point to the Holy Spirit, Dickerson draws on Scripture to illustrate his points. This connection between the Narnia stories and the Bible – both Old and New Testament – supports the thesis that we can draw images of the Holy Spirit from Lewis’s stories.
Aslan’s Breath, though not expressly a theological work, also brings out key doctrinal themes. For example, addressing the claim by some that Lewis was a universalist, Dickerson makes a strong case in the context of The Last Battle that Lewis illustrates a doctrine of salvation by grace (his emphasis) rather than salvation by doctrinal conformity. Repeatedly, we see that it is the transforming power of the Holy Spirit that does the work.
"We could write many books just on the biblical principle of spiritual renewal and transformation, apart from our exploration of the Narnia stories. God desires to transform and renew [H]is people. His people should desire that transformation. Yet we cannot accomplish this by our own effort. We cannot transform ourselves any more than we can bring about our own salvation, any more than the stone statues could transform themselves back to flesh, it took the breath of Aslan. The power of Aslan." (p.36)
Although the reader familiar with Lewis’s stories can read this book on its own, it may be best used as a study guide for the series. Reading each of Lewis’s stories followed by the corresponding chapter in Dickerson’s book would provide a rich approach to seeing the Holy Spirit in Lewis’s work. Having a Bible handy for cross references to Dicker’s citations will make it even richer. In any event, those who appreciate seeing Christ in Aslan and God the Father in the Emperor-beyond-the-Sea will appreciate seeing the Holy Spirit in Aslan’s Breath.
February 14, 2025
I grew up on The Chronicles of Narnia; they were my gateway to fantasy literature. Growing in a Christian community where there was some stigma about fantasy, but Narnia passed muster with its over themes of love and good vs. evil. As I grew up, I moved on to more “adult” fantasy such as Lord of the Rings, but still was interested in literary criticism about Narnia. That is what caught my eye about Aslan’s Breath in the bookstore.
There has been a lot written about the Christ-like figure of Aslan, and it is hard not to read the Emperor-Beyond-the-Sea as God the Father, but little has been written about where the Holy Spirit fits into the chronicles. The author’s thesis is that the references to breath and wind in the novels symbolizes the Spirit, just as it is described in the New Testament.
What stood out to me about this book is the way in which it was created. One of the chapters was presented at a conference and from that presentation, the other chapters covering all of the Narnia novels were written to complete the book. The author’s thesis was also intriguing particularly as I had never stopped to think about how the Holy Spirit would fit into the books if we read Aslan as a Christ-figure.
I think the ideas in the book were interesting, but I struggled with the organization and editing. Since parts of this book were written as speeches or papers and later adapted to fit into the book, there are places where the book as a whole does not flow. There were also several editing errors that were distracting. If you did not read the Narnia books through a faith lens, I don’t think this book would be interesting. While it is not dogmatic, at its core there’s the conceit that Aslan IS a Christ-figure; this is not a book for general Narnia fans.
There has been a lot written about the Christ-like figure of Aslan, and it is hard not to read the Emperor-Beyond-the-Sea as God the Father, but little has been written about where the Holy Spirit fits into the chronicles. The author’s thesis is that the references to breath and wind in the novels symbolizes the Spirit, just as it is described in the New Testament.
What stood out to me about this book is the way in which it was created. One of the chapters was presented at a conference and from that presentation, the other chapters covering all of the Narnia novels were written to complete the book. The author’s thesis was also intriguing particularly as I had never stopped to think about how the Holy Spirit would fit into the books if we read Aslan as a Christ-figure.
I think the ideas in the book were interesting, but I struggled with the organization and editing. Since parts of this book were written as speeches or papers and later adapted to fit into the book, there are places where the book as a whole does not flow. There were also several editing errors that were distracting. If you did not read the Narnia books through a faith lens, I don’t think this book would be interesting. While it is not dogmatic, at its core there’s the conceit that Aslan IS a Christ-figure; this is not a book for general Narnia fans.
March 15, 2024
This is a brand new book, which I was able to buy a week ago, after hearing the author speak about his book at a conference. I did appreciate hearing his speeches about the book, although he only said things he had written, so nothing is missed except his enthusiasm if there is no occasion to hear Dickerson speak.
I love how he trances the theme of the Holy Spirit through the Chronicles of Narnia and sees it through the theme of Aslan's breath. This made so much sense to me. It is a beautiful portrayl of the work of the Holy Spirit.
Reading this book has deepened my appreciation of and understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Recommended for any Narnia fans, especially those who are Christians.
I love how he trances the theme of the Holy Spirit through the Chronicles of Narnia and sees it through the theme of Aslan's breath. This made so much sense to me. It is a beautiful portrayl of the work of the Holy Spirit.
Reading this book has deepened my appreciation of and understanding of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
Recommended for any Narnia fans, especially those who are Christians.
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