A Severe Mercy is a moving autobiographical novel by Sheldon Vanauken, capturing the deep love story of him and his wife Jean. Throughout the book, the couple shares profound thoughts and insights on love, faith, and the meaning of life. These quotes from A Severe Mercy touch the heart and provide valuable insights into the complexities of human relationships and the pursuit of a meaningful life.
One of the most memorable quotes from A Severe Mercy is, “Love is not love until it is given away.” These words encapsulate the core theme of the novel, emphasizing the transformative power of selfless love. Vanauken reflects on the sacrificial love he and Jean shared, and how it profoundly impacted their lives.
A Severe Mercy also magnificently explores the profound connection between love and faith. Vanauken writes, “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly be broken.” This quote captures the idea that true love requires vulnerability and the acceptance of the potential pain that comes with it. In the context of the book, this vulnerability expands beyond human relationships to one’s relationship with God.
The novel also delves into the eternal question of the meaning of life. Vanauken writes, “Beloved, we must pray to be embraced by God in such a way that we are not deterred from serving Him by our suffering and our death.” This quote emphasizes the idea that a meaningful life is not synonymous with a life without suffering, but rather one that is dedicated to embracing and serving God, even in the face of pain and mortality.
These quotes from A Severe Mercy offer a glimpse into the profound wisdom and insights found within the novel. They serve as reminders of the transformative power of love, the importance of faith, and the pursuit of a meaningful life, making A Severe Mercy a truly impactful and inspiring read.
Famous Quotes from A Severe Mercy
“The best things are the hard things.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“To love at all is to be vulnerable.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“We are, not metaphorically but in very truth, a Divine work of art.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“With all my will, but much against my heart, I loved you.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“It’s funny how hard it is to keep above the tears.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“There is much sadness everywhere, but there’ll be Heaven where there’s sadness.” – Sheldon Vanauken
“Our love story, theirs and mine, is ended.” – Sheldon Vanauken
Inspiring Words from A Severe Mercy
1. “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything and your heart will be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact you must give it to no one, not even an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements. Lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket, safe, dark, motionless, airless, it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable. To love is to be vulnerable.”
2. “We must lay before Him what is in us; not what ought to be in us.”
3. “To know good and evil is the hinge of human nature. No other creation has this power.”
4. “Since God is not an idea but a person, the person supreme in every department of existence, it follows that each of us cannot be fully in Him until we have offered our whole heart and life to Him, in the act not of worship only, not only of belief and trust, but of that complete surrender which is adoration.”
5. “No soul that seriously and constantly desires joy will ever miss it. Those who seek find. Those who knock, it is opened.”
6. “The great thing, if one can, is to stop regarding all the unpleasant things as interruptions of one’s ‘own,’ or ‘real’ life. The truth is of course that what one calls the interruptions are precisely one’s real life – the life God is sending one day by day.”
7. “The people who don’t have a cross to carry, who never fall into the hands of such a love, simply don’t know what love is.”
8. “It is a glorious thing to know that your Father God makes no mistakes in directing or permitting that which crosses the path of your life.”
9. “To be able to say ‘Thy will be done’ with as much conviction as a man saying ‘my wife,’ that is the moment when heaven touches earth.”
Life Lessons from A Severe Mercy
A Severe Mercy is a beautiful and thought-provoking book that offers many valuable life lessons. Below are some key takeaways:
1. Love is worth the risk.
The book tells the story of Sheldon and Davy’s deep love for each other. Despite the pain that comes with love, they believe it is worth the risk. Love is portrayed as a transformative force that brings joy and growth.
2. Embrace your vulnerability.
Sheldon and Davy’s relationship showcases the importance of vulnerability. They allow themselves to be known and deeply connected, which leads to a profound and fulfilling love. Embracing vulnerability allows for genuine connections and intimacy.
3. C.S. Lewis’ influence is powerful.
The book highlights the impact C.S. Lewis had on the couple’s spiritual journey. His writings, especially on Christianity, helped shape their beliefs and perspectives. It teaches us the significance of finding guidance and wisdom in influential thinkers.
4. Life’s tragedies can lead to spiritual growth.
The death of their dear friend, the loss of their dreams, and other tragedies deepen Sheldon and Davy’s faith. They learn that pain and suffering can refine and strengthen one’s spirituality.
5. The beauty of community.
The importance of community is emphasized throughout the book. Sheldon and Davy’s friendships play a crucial role in their lives, offering support, guidance, and a sense of belonging. It reminds us of the significance of fostering meaningful connections.
6. Acceptance of life’s mysteries.
Sheldon and Davy come to accept the mysteries of life and the unknown. They recognize that some answers may remain elusive, and that is okay. It teaches us to embrace the uncertainties and find peace in acknowledging that not everything can be explained.
7. Faith and doubt can coexist.
Throughout the book, faith and doubt are portrayed as existing together. Sheldon and Davy experience moments of doubt, yet their faith remains strong. It teaches us that questioning and uncertainty are part of a healthy spiritual journey.
8. Cherish the present moment.
The book highlights the couple’s appreciation for the present moment and the beauty found in everyday life. It encourages us to embrace the present, celebrating the small joys and treasures that surround us.
9. Love transcends death.
Sheldon’s deep love for Davy continues even after her passing. It teaches us that love is eternal and transcends physical existence.
10. Do not fear to live a radical life.
The book inspires readers to live a radical life, embracing adventure and taking risks. Sheldon and Davy’s untraditional choices demonstrate the rewards of embracing a life lived fully and authentically.
A Severe Mercy offers profound insights and encourages readers to reflect on life’s purpose, love, faith, and the meaning of suffering. It is a reminder to live fully, love deeply, and embrace the joys and sorrows that come with being human.
Love and Relationships in A Severe Mercy
In A Severe Mercy, love and relationships play a central role in shaping the lives of the characters, especially in the context of the main couple, Sheldon and Davy Vanauken. The story explores the depths and complexities of their love, as well as the transformative power it holds.
Unconditional Love:
Sheldon and Davy’s love for each other is portrayed as unwavering and unconditional. They share a deep emotional connection that surpasses any temporal boundaries. Even in the face of trials and difficulties, they remain dedicated to each other, demonstrating the resilience of their love.
Spiritual Connection:
Their love is also intertwined with their spiritual journey. Through their shared pursuit of truth, they discover a deeper understanding of love, which leads them to embrace Christianity. This spiritual connection further strengthens their bond, as they grow together in faith and find solace in their shared beliefs.
Friendship and Companionship:
Sheldon and Davy’s relationship is rooted in a genuine friendship and companionship. They support and encourage each other, sharing both joys and sorrows. Their deep friendship serves as the foundation of their love, allowing them to navigate the challenges of life with mutual understanding and unwavering support.
Sacrifice and Loss:
Their love is tested when Davy falls ill and ultimately passes away, underscoring the theme of sacrifice and loss. Sheldon’s profound grief highlights the depth of their connection and demonstrates the pain that comes with losing a beloved partner. Through this experience, Sheldon learns to embrace the transformative power of love, understanding that love is worth the pain of loss.
The portrayal of love and relationships in A Severe Mercy reflects the complexities and beauty of human connections. It emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, spiritual growth, friendship, and the willingness to sacrifice for the ones we love. Sheldon and Davy’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact love can have on our lives and the transformative power it holds.
The Power of Friendship in A Severe Mercy
In A Severe Mercy, friendship plays a prominent role throughout the novel, illustrating the profound impact it can have on one’s life. Sheldon Vanauken’s memoir explores the deep and transformative friendship between himself and C.S. Lewis, highlighting its ability to shape and enrich their spiritual and emotional journeys.
The friendship between Vanauken and Lewis is characterized by a shared love for literature, philosophy, and an intense pursuit of truth. Their discussions and intellectual debates serve as catalysts for personal growth and self-discovery. The resilience and depth of their friendship is evident in Vanauken’s account, as he describes the profound influence Lewis had on his faith and worldview.
Friendship, in A Severe Mercy, is portrayed as a source of encouragement and support during times of hardship. Vanauken and his wife, Davy, face numerous challenges throughout the course of the novel, including Davy’s terminal illness. In these difficult moments, their friendship with Lewis becomes a lifeline, providing them with solace, guidance, and the strength to navigate their trials.
Furthermore, the power of friendship is showcased through the concept of “the third”. Vanauken and Davy’s relationship with Lewis transcends the typical boundaries of friendship, creating a unique and profound triangle of love. Lewis becomes not only a dear friend, but also a mentor and spiritual guide, deeply invested in their well-being and growth.
The theme of friendship in A Severe Mercy underscores the transformative influence it can have on one’s life. Vanauken’s narrative highlights the importance of cultivating deep and authentic connections with others, as they have the ability to shape our beliefs, provide comfort in times of adversity, and facilitate spiritual growth.
Ultimately, the profound friendship between Sheldon Vanauken and C.S. Lewis in A Severe Mercy serves as a testament to the power of human connection and the transformative impact it can have on one’s journey through life.
Reflections on Faith in A Severe Mercy
Faith plays a central role in Sheldon Vanauken’s memoir, A Severe Mercy, as he recounts his spiritual journey and the impact of his faith on his relationship with his wife and with God.
One of the main themes in the book is the idea of faith as a transformative force. Vanauken’s encounter with Christianity brings about a deep change in his life, leading him to question his previous beliefs and embrace a new way of understanding the world. He describes the process of his conversion as a “miracle,” highlighting the profound effect that faith had on his thinking and perspective.
Throughout the book, Vanauken reflects on the challenges and doubts that arise in his faith journey. He recognizes that faith is not always easy, and that it requires a willingness to wrestle with difficult questions and uncertainties. He writes, “Faith, I decided, is an art form like poetry. You must work at it, experiment with it, try to find your own way of seeing it.” This recognition of the need for active engagement with faith highlights the ongoing nature of belief and the importance of personal exploration and reflection.
Vanauken also emphasizes the role of faith in relationships, particularly in his marriage to his wife, Davy. Their shared faith becomes a source of strength and unity, providing a foundation for their love and a means of navigating the challenges they face. He writes, “The love of Christ can and does make a profound difference in our love; our love is bound up in Christ’s love, and in this sense partakes in Christ’s Eros.” This understanding of love as rooted in faith underscores the Christian belief in the transformative power of love.
Overall, A Severe Mercy offers a nuanced exploration of faith and its implications for personal growth, relationships, and a sense of purpose. Vanauken’s reflections on faith remind us of the profound impact that belief can have on our lives and the complexities that come with embracing and living out our faith.
Loss and Grief in A Severe Mercy
Loss and grief are central themes in A Severe Mercy, deeply intertwined with love and faith. The book chronicles the journey of Sheldon and Jean Vanauken as they navigate the challenges of life and death.
The loss of loved ones is a recurring theme throughout the book. From the death of Sheldon’s father to the tragic loss of their close friends, Davy and Dave, the Vanaukens experience grief in various forms. These losses not only test their faith but also deepen their understanding of the transient nature of life.
Grief, in A Severe Mercy, is portrayed as a transformative experience. When Sheldon’s father passes away, he reflects on the impermanence of life and gains a renewed appreciation for the time he spent with his father. Similarly, the death of Davy and Dave forces the Vanaukens to confront their mortality and reevaluate their priorities.
Moreover, the loss of their friends leads to a profound spiritual crisis. Sheldon grapples with questions of God’s existence and the purpose of suffering. His journey through grief ultimately leads him to find solace and meaning in his faith, discovering a “severe mercy” that transforms his understanding of love and loss.
Throughout the book, Sheldon uses poignant language to capture the depth of his grief. He describes loss as a “wound that does not heal,” emphasizing the enduring pain caused by the absence of loved ones. His words convey a raw and honest portrayal of the emotional impact of loss.
In conclusion, A Severe Mercy explores the themes of loss and grief as integral parts of the human experience. Through their personal losses, the Vanaukens confront the fragility of life, grapple with existential questions, and ultimately find solace in their faith. The book offers a poignant exploration of the transformative power of loss and the enduring nature of grief.
Hope and Redemption in A Severe Mercy
In A Severe Mercy, Sheldon Vanauken explores themes of hope and redemption as he recounts his love story with his wife, Davy. Through their relationship, the couple experiences profound spiritual transformation and discovers the power of love and faith.
One of the key quotes that illustrates this theme is when Vanauken states, “Love is a great and unsearchable thing…it is beyond all search or stealing.” This quote highlights the transformative power of love, as Vanauken and Davy’s love for each other becomes a source of hope and redemption in their lives.
The couple’s journey also involves a profound spiritual awakening. They encounter the writings of C.S. Lewis, particularly his book The Problem of Pain, which raises questions about suffering and the existence of God. This leads them to explore Christianity and ultimately embrace the faith, finding redemption and hope in their newfound belief.
Another poignant quote that captures the theme of hope and redemption is when Vanauken reflects, “The pain now is part of the happiness then.” This quote reveals the couple’s understanding that suffering and pain can lead to growth and ultimately enhance their capacity to experience joy and love.
The book also explores the concept of divine providence. Vanauken describes how certain events in their lives, such as their meeting with C.S. Lewis, seem to be guided by a mysterious higher power. This belief in providence brings them comfort and assurance that there is a greater plan at work, ultimately leading them to a hopeful and redemptive outlook on life.
| Quotes | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “Love is a great and unsearchable thing…it is beyond all search or stealing.” | Illustrates the transformative power of love and its role in the couple’s journey towards hope and redemption. |
| “The pain now is part of the happiness then.” | Highlights the couple’s understanding that suffering can lead to growth and enhance their capacity for joy. |
Overall, A Severe Mercy explores the themes of hope and redemption through the transformative power of love, spiritual awakening, and belief in divine providence. Vanauken’s memoir serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for great transformation and redemption even in the face of suffering.