What do you think?
Rate this book
The Flight of the Shadow
"Though it gives the appearance of starting out as a 'realistic' novel in the tradition of his many others, 'The Flight of the Shadow' soon becomes dark and ominous...." (Michael Phillips)
"In [The Flight of the Shadow]... Dr. MacDonald is bound even less than usual by the commonplace of conventional life, and in it are to be found some of the most strikingly imaginative and mystical of his nature pictures, and symbolisms, as where he describes the horizon looking like a 'void between a cataclysm and the moving afresh of the Spirit of God upon the face of the waters.'
"Later... the sight of a rider on a white horse, dimly seen in a storm, awakes the thought of 'Death returning home on the eve of the great dawn, worn with his age-long work, pleased that it was over, and no more need of him.'
"It is with a kind of chastened pity that the flower-like heroine of this book speaks of those who 'are afraid of loneliness, and hate God's lovely dark.'
"These are the same souls who shrink from the idea of death; yet, says Dr. MacDonald, 'no one can be living a true life to whom dying is a terror' [from 'What's Mine's Mine']." (Katherine Weller, 'A Modern Mystic: George MacDonald')
"In [The Flight of the Shadow]... Dr. MacDonald is bound even less than usual by the commonplace of conventional life, and in it are to be found some of the most strikingly imaginative and mystical of his nature pictures, and symbolisms, as where he describes the horizon looking like a 'void between a cataclysm and the moving afresh of the Spirit of God upon the face of the waters.'
"Later... the sight of a rider on a white horse, dimly seen in a storm, awakes the thought of 'Death returning home on the eve of the great dawn, worn with his age-long work, pleased that it was over, and no more need of him.'
"It is with a kind of chastened pity that the flower-like heroine of this book speaks of those who 'are afraid of loneliness, and hate God's lovely dark.'
"These are the same souls who shrink from the idea of death; yet, says Dr. MacDonald, 'no one can be living a true life to whom dying is a terror' [from 'What's Mine's Mine']." (Katherine Weller, 'A Modern Mystic: George MacDonald')
337 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1891
15 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
George MacDonald
1,716 books2,501 followersGeorge MacDonald was a Scottish author, poet and Christian Congregational minister. He became a pioneering figure in the field of modern fantasy literature and the mentor of fellow-writer Lewis Carroll. In addition to his fairy tales, MacDonald wrote several works of Christian theology, including several collections of sermons.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
November 24, 2020
I can’t say that this is one of George MacDonald’s best stories, but I can’t say that it’s a bad one, either.
George MacDonald can write circles around me. His simple descriptions of things contain deep truths about life, love, and spiritual reality. I was not glued to this story from the beginning, but it grew on me. I came to greatly admire the close relationship between Belorba and her uncle. Or, more accurately, I loved the description of the uncle himself, who was obviously an allegorical representation of God.
And even when the story shifted to become a love story between Belorba and John, I appreciated how the story progressed. I loved to read Belorba’s intricate thoughts and worries, and I loved her uncle’s responses. So much of it really does parallel our own relationship with God while we grow up.
So I was a bit confused when the story shifted again.
But I also fully admit that George MacDonald is the master story-teller. I am very much his student, and not the other way around.
Since I was not captivated by the story at first, I did not read it closely from the first page. I will definitely need to revisit this one in the future, and I fully expect that I will appreciate it even more.
George MacDonald can write circles around me. His simple descriptions of things contain deep truths about life, love, and spiritual reality. I was not glued to this story from the beginning, but it grew on me. I came to greatly admire the close relationship between Belorba and her uncle. Or, more accurately, I loved the description of the uncle himself, who was obviously an allegorical representation of God.
And even when the story shifted to become a love story between Belorba and John, I appreciated how the story progressed. I loved to read Belorba’s intricate thoughts and worries, and I loved her uncle’s responses. So much of it really does parallel our own relationship with God while we grow up.
So I was a bit confused when the story shifted again.
But I also fully admit that George MacDonald is the master story-teller. I am very much his student, and not the other way around.
Since I was not captivated by the story at first, I did not read it closely from the first page. I will definitely need to revisit this one in the future, and I fully expect that I will appreciate it even more.
February 4, 2015
This is an easy read, full of the attendant feeling of possibility. It has about it the atmosphere even of fantasy, all the while keeping under it a solid realism. It isn't a tale of domestic drama, like one would find elsewhere – though its domestic beginnings might lead one to expect so much – but rather has a sense of coiled danger about it, which springs in due time into mildly violent action.
But it wouldn't be like MacDonald to finally resolve the danger by means of the violence. This is more a story of character and growth, bordered along the edges by the fantastical mystery of daguerreotype heaths and fogs.
MacDonald is of course known for teaching us to be better people by means of instructive examples in the lives of his characters, and this little read is politely rich in that way. The principal theme here is openness to those who love you and the dangers of secrets. An excellent goad and guide toward 'living in the light' – a life of transparency and confession – "The Flight of the Shadow" demonstrates that neglected spiritual discipline which the Apostle John held to be so integral to the Christian life (see the second half of the first chapter of 1 John).
But it wouldn't be like MacDonald to finally resolve the danger by means of the violence. This is more a story of character and growth, bordered along the edges by the fantastical mystery of daguerreotype heaths and fogs.
MacDonald is of course known for teaching us to be better people by means of instructive examples in the lives of his characters, and this little read is politely rich in that way. The principal theme here is openness to those who love you and the dangers of secrets. An excellent goad and guide toward 'living in the light' – a life of transparency and confession – "The Flight of the Shadow" demonstrates that neglected spiritual discipline which the Apostle John held to be so integral to the Christian life (see the second half of the first chapter of 1 John).
August 28, 2011
I've only read MacDonald's "Phantastes" and some of his fairy tales before, and so "The Flight of the Shadow" was an odd book for me. Once I got over my expectations I noted that it was what one might expect from a man writing in this period (a gothic tale on the moors) but I would argue that MacDonald seems much more "at home" in fantasy than even gothic (or the more "realistic" Victorian tone and plot that the book, at times, became).
The main interest of the book for me, then, came from the bits of MacDonald that came through in the character's speech. George MacDonald was an avid writer, not only of fiction but of non-fiction as well, and many of the ideas discussed in "The Flight of Shadows," such as God and the Imagination and the growth of the human through adversity, I look forward to reading about in the future. MacDonald has a delicacy with words, too, that I have not read often in authors, and while this led me to feel that some of his characters were somewhat overly "Romantic" at times (in the sense that they seemed directly from the Romantic movement, not necessarily that they spoke often of the power of love), it also gave to the work a distinct feel that ran throughout the whole and distinguished it from works which may have a similar plot. I have always heard of MacDonald as being a man generous, kind, giving and hopeful and these traits are certainly apparent in his prose style. Reading MacDonald is like being under a warm blanket on a cool morning and an older, beloved relative there to give you tea and a nice long book that you know you'll have the whole day to finish.
The main interest of the book for me, then, came from the bits of MacDonald that came through in the character's speech. George MacDonald was an avid writer, not only of fiction but of non-fiction as well, and many of the ideas discussed in "The Flight of Shadows," such as God and the Imagination and the growth of the human through adversity, I look forward to reading about in the future. MacDonald has a delicacy with words, too, that I have not read often in authors, and while this led me to feel that some of his characters were somewhat overly "Romantic" at times (in the sense that they seemed directly from the Romantic movement, not necessarily that they spoke often of the power of love), it also gave to the work a distinct feel that ran throughout the whole and distinguished it from works which may have a similar plot. I have always heard of MacDonald as being a man generous, kind, giving and hopeful and these traits are certainly apparent in his prose style. Reading MacDonald is like being under a warm blanket on a cool morning and an older, beloved relative there to give you tea and a nice long book that you know you'll have the whole day to finish.
October 18, 2023
The Flight of the Shadow is an apt title for the culminating event that the words symbolize. Truly, though, the shadow flew before the end, when brothers are reunited in love and forgiveness, each admitting his wrong in the events leading to the Death that had separated them. The shadow, then, was put to flight through unity and goodness.
Orbie is an extremely strong female character, devoted to her lover, John, but more devoted to the good and right that her uncle had taught her. Her wisdom allowed the shadow to have no dominion, though it still lurked in the lives of those connected to the neighborhood.
Themes of secrets, sins, life, death, and the symbolism of the boggy moor make this a great read for any MacDonald fan. I felt like the first couple chapters were a bit bumpy as he tried to fit himself into the persona of his female narrator, but, as he always does, he came into his stride and delivered a thrilling tale of truth.
***********
Reread review:
I don't have much to add from the first time. I needed this story, this plunge back into Kingdom thinking. So refreshing. I had remembered this title with a different plot (The Golden Key???), but I wasn't disappointed to wind up with this story.
The ending is so beautiful! MacDonald's perspective of Death is so uplifting. "'Here lie the discarded shells . . . They are not here. They are risen.' John and I are waiting." YES!! Just yes.
Orbie is an extremely strong female character, devoted to her lover, John, but more devoted to the good and right that her uncle had taught her. Her wisdom allowed the shadow to have no dominion, though it still lurked in the lives of those connected to the neighborhood.
Themes of secrets, sins, life, death, and the symbolism of the boggy moor make this a great read for any MacDonald fan. I felt like the first couple chapters were a bit bumpy as he tried to fit himself into the persona of his female narrator, but, as he always does, he came into his stride and delivered a thrilling tale of truth.
***********
Reread review:
I don't have much to add from the first time. I needed this story, this plunge back into Kingdom thinking. So refreshing. I had remembered this title with a different plot (The Golden Key???), but I wasn't disappointed to wind up with this story.
The ending is so beautiful! MacDonald's perspective of Death is so uplifting. "'Here lie the discarded shells . . . They are not here. They are risen.' John and I are waiting." YES!! Just yes.
August 17, 2021
Good, but not one of his best.
Story of a relationship between a girl and her favorite uncle who raised her when her parents died when she was a child. The girl grows up and falls in love with a young man who has a power hungry mother who wants to keep him under her thumb to maintain her money and position.
There is, as always with MacDonald, an underlying theme of right and wrong, of a soul's journey uniting with God and of love. Love of all varieties.
The writing style is dated but still holds up well today. (Written in the late 1800's).
Content concerns:
Story of a relationship between a girl and her favorite uncle who raised her when her parents died when she was a child. The girl grows up and falls in love with a young man who has a power hungry mother who wants to keep him under her thumb to maintain her money and position.
There is, as always with MacDonald, an underlying theme of right and wrong, of a soul's journey uniting with God and of love. Love of all varieties.
The writing style is dated but still holds up well today. (Written in the late 1800's).
Content concerns:
January 1, 2023
George MacDonald gives us one of his beloved love stories set here against the backdrop of familial treachery and a mysterious doppelgänger. Although some might see this as one of his minor works, and I cannot deny that his tendency to slide into melodrama is at times obvious in this novel, I nevertheless found his trademark writing style irresistible and was as always, enthralled by his spiritual acumen and insight.
Long before Thomas Merton developed the concept of the false self, MacDonald introduces it here. He reveals how susceptible a man is to character disintegration when he succumbs to the wiles of the one who exploits this universally human vulnerability.
As is so often the case, MacDonald was far ahead of his time in anticipating some of the major pitfalls that would be encountered in Christian fundamentalism in the centuries that would follow his own. I was taken by his reference to the hazards of depending on scripture proof texting to attain theological certainty. Here is the full quotation representing his views on this matter:
"Sometimes," he went on, "I look all around me to see if Jesus is out anywhere, but I have never seen him yet!"
"We shall see him one day, shan't we?" I said, craning round to look into his eyes, which were my earthly paradise. . . .
"I think so," he answered, with a sigh that seemed to swell like a sea-wave against me, as I sat on his arm; "--I hope so. I live but for that--and for one thing more."
There are some, I fancy, who would blame him for not being sure, and bring text after text to prove that he ought to have been sure. But oh those text-people! They look to me, not like the clay-sparrows that Jesus made fly, but like bird-skins in a glass-case, stuffed with texts. The doubt of a man like my uncle must be a far better thing than their assurance!
Long before Thomas Merton developed the concept of the false self, MacDonald introduces it here. He reveals how susceptible a man is to character disintegration when he succumbs to the wiles of the one who exploits this universally human vulnerability.
As is so often the case, MacDonald was far ahead of his time in anticipating some of the major pitfalls that would be encountered in Christian fundamentalism in the centuries that would follow his own. I was taken by his reference to the hazards of depending on scripture proof texting to attain theological certainty. Here is the full quotation representing his views on this matter:
"Sometimes," he went on, "I look all around me to see if Jesus is out anywhere, but I have never seen him yet!"
"We shall see him one day, shan't we?" I said, craning round to look into his eyes, which were my earthly paradise. . . .
"I think so," he answered, with a sigh that seemed to swell like a sea-wave against me, as I sat on his arm; "--I hope so. I live but for that--and for one thing more."
There are some, I fancy, who would blame him for not being sure, and bring text after text to prove that he ought to have been sure. But oh those text-people! They look to me, not like the clay-sparrows that Jesus made fly, but like bird-skins in a glass-case, stuffed with texts. The doubt of a man like my uncle must be a far better thing than their assurance!
March 16, 2019
Oh Victorian Novels....
While I am and will remain an ardent George MacDonald fan, his novels are just shy of allegorical sermons. His fantasies remain his best works.
While I am and will remain an ardent George MacDonald fan, his novels are just shy of allegorical sermons. His fantasies remain his best works.
June 4, 2014
A great book, and a classic. Read this because I enjoyed his more adult books, and it's a great story for any little girl (or not so little girl) with magic and love and all the things great fairy tales are made of.
November 3, 2025
As always, George MacDonald books are a delight! I just learned that this is one of the last books that MacDonald wrote and the first to be narrated by a woman. His description of the "Jezebel" like woman is insightful and brilliant. I was surprised that the love story in the book consisted of falling in love without really knowing the other - it was more of a psychic, physical attraction. I wondered if MacDonald felt that way when he met his wife? I somehow missed (because I listened to the story instead of reading it) whether the wicked neighbor woman was the same woman that the uncle fell in love with earlier in life. If someone can answer that question, I'd sure appreciate it!
January 17, 2020
I've only read one other book by MacDonald (The Princess & the Goblin) and have heard great things about this author. So when I saw this in the library as a giveaway, I wanted to try another one of his books out. I think I've grown too accustomed to modern day writing and could not fully get into his style. I am sure the book had tons of deep theological undertones, but it was either lost on me or I do not see God in the same way MacDonald viewed him.
November 1, 2021
This book was decidedly mixed. The book was part romance part mystery and I am not convinced that the two genres worked together. I was tempted to abandon it early on, as my impression of the book went from sweet and boring to irritating and boring. Thankfully near the end there was an improvement in the book, such that I rather enjoyed the ending. For me, even this ending didn’t balance the earlier parts of the book.
May 23, 2021
A very encouraging book for those of us imperfect people who grew up in imperfect families with imperfect mothers and fathers!!!When God is our Father and Jesus is our Savior and elder Brother and the Holy Spirit is our Comfort and Guide, we can love and forgive others because we have been loved and forgiven!!
November 22, 2023
This seems to be a bit of a departure from the author's other works. I enjoyed it, but it lacked something for me. I can't quite put my finger on it.
I also particularly didn't enjoy the fact that it was written in first person.
I also particularly didn't enjoy the fact that it was written in first person.
August 25, 2017
Moody, detailed, entertaining.
Read
April 30, 2023(Lori)
November 24, 2024
lil confusing, but i had to read it
June 26, 2014
I started reading from the collection of works by George MacDonald because I understood he was an inspiration to one of my favorite authors, C.S. Lewis. I randomly picked this short novel and was not disappointed. While some may not enjoy the provincial, old-fashioned style of writing,
I found it quite charming, like watching a Sherlock Holmes movie of the Basil Rathbone era. I pictured the story unfolding in black-and-white drama and enjoyed wondering what mystery surrounded the uncle. The allegory and underlying themes of sin and forgiveness made the book substantial. I very much enjoyed reading this while on my trip to Hawaii.
I found it quite charming, like watching a Sherlock Holmes movie of the Basil Rathbone era. I pictured the story unfolding in black-and-white drama and enjoyed wondering what mystery surrounded the uncle. The allegory and underlying themes of sin and forgiveness made the book substantial. I very much enjoyed reading this while on my trip to Hawaii.
December 30, 2014
This book is of great depth, and teaches one much. I would that it were more common and well-known, along with other books of MacDonald's.
I hate spoilers, so I will not write them. I will leave you to find out the story. You can read the book for free, either online, on your computer, tablet, or phone from http://www.gutenberg.org/, along with over 25,000 other free books. You can access the individual book at http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/8902 .
I look forward to seeing what other people think of this book, and seeing it more commonly known.
I hate spoilers, so I will not write them. I will leave you to find out the story. You can read the book for free, either online, on your computer, tablet, or phone from http://www.gutenberg.org/, along with over 25,000 other free books. You can access the individual book at http://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/8902 .
I look forward to seeing what other people think of this book, and seeing it more commonly known.
Read
June 8, 2008It is very, very rare that I start a book and not finish it, regardless of how I like it. Just gotta git r done, I guess. But after a third of the way through this, I felt like I was having a tooth pulled. Disjointed, sprinkled with little bits of preaching, dull, non-fleshed out characters. Just aweful.
April 15, 2013
This is the first George MacDonald book I've read. It's an okay example of Victorian melodrama. I thought it might be a fantasy novel, given his works, but it's a pretty normal book and I honestly lost interest halfway through. The ending wasn't good enough to justify the middle. Bottom line, read if you're interested in the genre skip if you're not.
March 25, 2014
The mystery and supernatural elements are just enough to give some tension to the story and allow the reader to experience a wonderful example of fatherhood through the relationship between a niece and her uncle. MacDonald is graced with a profound love of God and MacDonald'sbelief in universal redemption are spelled out in many treasure blue quotes throughout the pages.
October 17, 2022
ⓒ 1891. A mysterious figure on the moor at night, an evil woman, an orphan girl and the uncle who dotes on her are the characters you'll get to know in this romantic story by “the saint of Aberdeen,” George MacDonald. A surprise ending adds to the enjoyment. I enjoyed a second reading in 2022.
March 29, 2008
This is one of my favorite G. MacDonald novels. Beautiful parable of the love of a father for his child.
January 13, 2015
I totally loved reading this book!
July 8, 2017
I enjoyed this book but it was not my favorite of the George MacDonald books I have read.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews