This book offers insight into the human condition and the seemingly innocent things that can separate us from God. We also get a taste of Lewis's view of Heaven and Hell. In Beyond the Shadowlands: C. S. Lewis on Heaven and Hell, Wayne Martindale traces the theme of the afterlife throughout Lewis's works, including The Great Divorce. He summarizes Lewis's thoughts as follows:
* Heaven is being in the presence of God and enjoying all good things that flow from his character and creativity.* Heaven is utter reality; Hell is nearly nothing.* Although Heaven is a definite place, it is more relationship than place (not unlike the experience we have in our homes)* All our desires are, at bottom, for Heaven.* Heaven is the fulfillment of human potential; Hell is the drying up of human potential.* We choose Heaven or Hell, daily becoming someone more suited for Heaven or someone who wouldn't like the place even if it were offered.* Hell is receiving our just desert; Heaven is all undeserved gift.
* Heaven is being in the presence of God and enjoying all good things that flow from his character and creativity.* Heaven is utter reality; Hell is nearly nothing.* Although Heaven is a definite place, it is more relationship than place (not unlike the experience we have in our homes)* All our desires are, at bottom, for Heaven.* Heaven is the fulfillment of human potential; Hell is the drying up of human potential.* We choose Heaven or Hell, daily becoming someone more suited for Heaven or someone who wouldn't like the place even if it were offered.* Hell is receiving our just desert; Heaven is all undeserved gift.
Read the whole piece here.
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