Collaborative Creativity: The Inklings' Influence on Literature
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, everyone. I'm Diana Glyer, and I'm thrilled to be here today to discuss the profound influence of C.S. Lewis, J.R.R. Tolkien, and the Inklings on each other's work. This talk is part of an initiative by Northwind Seminary to honor the inaugural class of Ph.D. students in Romantic Theology. Welcome to all of you, and to anyone else who might be listening in. This is not a formal lecture but an invitation to join me in exploring the dynamic interactions within this remarkable group of writers.
The Inklings were a group of 19 men who met regularly to discuss their work. They had two types of meetings: informal Tuesday gatherings at the Eagle and Child pub, and more formal Thursday night sessions at Lewis's rooms in Maudlin College, Oxford. The Tuesday meetings were open to students and women and focused on discussing ideas rather than critiquing manuscripts. The Thursday meetings were more exclusive and involved reading and critiquing each other's drafts late into the night.
When I first learned about the Inklings, I was fascinated by their creative process and wanted to know how their interactions influenced their work. My book, "The Company They Keep," aims to provide an inside view of this process. I wanted to understand what difference it made that these writers worked in association with one another. What comments, suggestions, and criticisms did they share? How did their relationships affect their productivity and the reception of their work?
Initially, I was discouraged by the prevailing scholarly opinion that the Inklings had little to no influence on each other. Humphrey Carpenter, in his book "The Inklings," claimed that Tolkien and Williams would have written everything they did even if they had never heard of the group. Other scholars like Gareth Knight and Lynn Carter echoed this sentiment. However, I decided to take a different approach in my research. Instead of looking for influence in the finished products, I focused on the interactive process.
I identified five categories of interaction among the Inklings: resonators, opponents, editors, collaborators, and references. A resonator is someone who fundamentally understands and supports what you are trying to achieve. For example, Tolkien's work on "The Lord of the Rings" was significantly supported by the Inklings, especially C.S. Lewis, who encouraged him to continue even when he wanted to give up.
Opponents, on the other hand, challenge you in ways that bring out the best in your work. Charles Williams experienced this when the Inklings critiqued his novel "The Noises That Weren't There," leading him to rewrite it into what became "All Hallows Eve," considered his finest work.
Editors provide specific advice and recommendations. For instance, Owen Barfield suggested that C.S. Lewis include a warning in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" to prevent children from locking themselves in wardrobes, a small but significant change.
Collaboration was also a key aspect of their interaction. The Inklings often worked together on joint projects, such as the essay collection "Essays Presented to Charles Williams." They even created collaborative poetry, writing lines alternately in a circle.
Finally, references to each other's work were common. They cited each other in footnotes, dedication pages, and even included each other as characters in their stories. For example, Tolkien modeled the character Treebeard after Lewis, and Lewis based the character Ransom in "Out of the Silent Planet" on Tolkien.
In conclusion, the Inklings' dynamic interactions had a profound impact on their creative processes and the works they produced. Their example challenges us to resist the impulse to work in isolation and instead embrace a collaborative approach in our own creative endeavors.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of Resonators: Resonators are individuals who deeply understand and support your creative vision. They provide encouragement and help you stay committed to your goals. For example, Tolkien's completion of "The Lord of the Rings" was significantly influenced by the encouragement he received from the Inklings, especially C.S. Lewis. This support helped him persevere through moments of doubt and frustration. [19:50]
2. The Role of Opponents: Opponents challenge us in ways that refine our work and bring out the best in us. Charles Williams experienced this when the Inklings critiqued his novel "The Noises That Weren't There," leading him to rewrite it into "All Hallows Eve," which is considered his finest work. Constructive criticism can prevent us from pursuing dead ends and help us focus on what truly matters. [23:01]
3. The Importance of Editors: Editors provide specific advice and recommendations that can significantly improve our work. Owen Barfield's suggestion to include a warning in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is a prime example. This small editorial change helped ensure the safety of young readers and demonstrated the practical impact of thoughtful editing. [26:19]
4. Collaboration as a Creative Force: Collaboration involves working together to conceive and complete projects. The Inklings often engaged in collaborative poetry and joint projects, such as the essay collection "Essays Presented to Charles Williams." This collaborative spirit enriched their creative processes and led to the production of remarkable works. [27:54]
5. The Value of References: The Inklings frequently referenced each other's work, citing one another in footnotes, dedication pages, and even including each other as characters in their stories. This practice not only acknowledged their mutual influence but also created a rich tapestry of interconnected works that enhanced the depth and meaning of their individual contributions. [35:21]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [03:22] - Introduction to the Inklings
3. [05:07] - Inside View of the Inklings
4. [06:39] - Research Questions
5. [08:16] - Scholarly Opinions on Influence
6. [09:42] - Methodological Shift
7. [13:27] - Interactive Process
8. [16:52] - Resonators
9. [18:13] - Encouragement and Accountability
10. [19:50] - Tolkien's Journey with The Lord of the Rings
11. [21:25] - The Role of Opponents
12. [23:01] - Charles Williams' Rewrite
13. [24:25] - Christopher Tolkien's Contribution
14. [26:19] - Editorial Influence
15. [27:54] - Collaboration Proper
16. [29:21] - Collaborative Poetry
17. [30:37] - Early Collaborations
18. [32:20] - Mapping Middle-Earth
19. [33:38] - Essays Presented to Charles Williams
20. [35:21] - References in Each Other's Work
21. [37:20] - Applying the Inklings' Example
22. [39:11] - Conclusion on Creative Influence
23. [40:53] - Final Thoughts and Farewell
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Proverbs 27:17 (NIV): "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."
2. Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up."
3. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV): "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
### Observation Questions
1. What were the two types of meetings held by the Inklings, and what was the focus of each? ([03:22])
2. How did the Inklings function as "resonators" for each other, and can you provide an example from the sermon? ([19:50])
3. What role did "opponents" play in the creative process of the Inklings, and how did this impact Charles Williams' work? ([23:01])
4. How did Owen Barfield's editorial suggestion impact "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe"? ([26:19])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the concept of "iron sharpening iron" (Proverbs 27:17) relate to the role of opponents in the Inklings' group? ([21:25])
2. In what ways did the Inklings' practice of meeting together (Hebrews 10:24-25) enhance their creative output and personal growth? ([37:20])
3. How might the idea of "two are better than one" (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) be seen in the collaborative efforts of the Inklings, such as their joint projects and collaborative poetry? ([27:54])
4. What can we learn from the Inklings' practice of referencing each other's work about the importance of acknowledging and supporting our peers? ([35:21])
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Proverbs 27:17, who in your life acts as "iron" to sharpen you? How can you intentionally seek out or strengthen these relationships?
2. Considering Ecclesiastes 4:9-10, think of a time when you were able to help someone up or when someone helped you. How can you be more proactive in offering support to those around you?
3. Hebrews 10:24-25 emphasizes the importance of meeting together and encouraging one another. How can you make a commitment to more regularly engage in meaningful gatherings with others, whether in a small group or another setting?
4. The Inklings' practice of constructive criticism helped refine their work. How can you cultivate a mindset that welcomes constructive feedback in your personal or professional life? ([23:01])
5. The Inklings often collaborated on projects. Is there a project or goal you are working on that could benefit from collaboration? How can you invite others to join you in this effort? ([27:54])
6. The Inklings referenced each other's work, acknowledging their mutual influence. How can you make a habit of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of others in your community or workplace? ([35:21])
7. Reflect on a time when you felt discouraged in a long-term project. How did encouragement from others help you persevere, and how can you be that source of encouragement for someone else now? ([19:50])
Devotional
Day 1: The Power of Resonators
Resonators are individuals who deeply understand and support your creative vision. They provide encouragement and help you stay committed to your goals. For example, Tolkien's completion of "The Lord of the Rings" was significantly influenced by the encouragement he received from the Inklings, especially C.S. Lewis. This support helped him persevere through moments of doubt and frustration. [19:50]
In our spiritual journey, having resonators—people who understand and support our faith—can make a significant difference. These individuals offer encouragement and help us stay committed to our spiritual goals, especially during times of doubt and frustration. Just as Tolkien was encouraged by the Inklings, we too can find strength and perseverance through the support of our faith community. Resonators help us see the bigger picture and remind us of our purpose when we feel like giving up.
Think about the people in your life who resonate with your spiritual journey. How have they supported you? How can you be a resonator for someone else? Reflect on the importance of these relationships and how they contribute to your spiritual growth.
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Who are the resonators in your life that support your spiritual journey? How can you express your gratitude to them today?
Day 2: The Role of Opponents
Opponents challenge us in ways that refine our work and bring out the best in us. Charles Williams experienced this when the Inklings critiqued his novel "The Noises That Weren't There," leading him to rewrite it into "All Hallows Eve," which is considered his finest work. Constructive criticism can prevent us from pursuing dead ends and help us focus on what truly matters. [23:01]
In our spiritual lives, opponents or those who challenge us can be a blessing in disguise. They push us to think critically, refine our beliefs, and grow stronger in our faith. Constructive criticism, though sometimes difficult to accept, can help us avoid spiritual pitfalls and focus on what truly matters. Just as Charles Williams' work was improved through the critiques of the Inklings, our spiritual journey can be enriched by those who challenge us to grow and improve.
Consider the role of opponents in your life. How have they helped you grow spiritually? Reflect on the importance of constructive criticism and how it can lead to personal and spiritual development.
Proverbs 27:17 (ESV): "Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another."
Reflection: Think of a time when someone challenged you in your faith. How did it help you grow? How can you embrace constructive criticism in your spiritual journey today?
Day 3: The Importance of Editors
Editors provide specific advice and recommendations that can significantly improve our work. Owen Barfield's suggestion to include a warning in "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe" is a prime example. This small editorial change helped ensure the safety of young readers and demonstrated the practical impact of thoughtful editing. [26:19]
In our spiritual journey, having "editors"—people who provide specific advice and recommendations—can be invaluable. These individuals help us see things from a different perspective and offer practical suggestions that can improve our spiritual practices. Just as Owen Barfield's editorial advice made a significant impact on C.S. Lewis' work, the guidance we receive from others can help us grow and make better decisions in our faith journey.
Think about the people who have acted as editors in your life. How have their advice and recommendations helped you? Reflect on the importance of seeking and accepting guidance from others to improve your spiritual walk.
Proverbs 12:15 (ESV): "The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice."
Reflection: Who are the "editors" in your spiritual journey that provide you with valuable advice? How can you seek their guidance more intentionally today?
Day 4: Collaboration as a Creative Force
Collaboration involves working together to conceive and complete projects. The Inklings often engaged in collaborative poetry and joint projects, such as the essay collection "Essays Presented to Charles Williams." This collaborative spirit enriched their creative processes and led to the production of remarkable works. [27:54]
In our spiritual lives, collaboration can be a powerful force for growth and creativity. Working together with others in our faith community can lead to new insights, deeper understanding, and the creation of meaningful projects. The collaborative spirit of the Inklings serves as an example of how working together can enrich our spiritual journey and lead to the production of remarkable works that glorify God.
Consider the role of collaboration in your spiritual life. How can you work together with others to grow in your faith and create meaningful projects? Reflect on the importance of a collaborative spirit in your spiritual journey.
Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (ESV): "Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow. But woe to him who is alone when he falls and has not another to lift him up!"
Reflection: How can you collaborate with others in your faith community to grow spiritually and create meaningful projects? What steps can you take to foster a collaborative spirit today?
Day 5: The Value of References
The Inklings frequently referenced each other's work, citing one another in footnotes, dedication pages, and even including each other as characters in their stories. This practice not only acknowledged their mutual influence but also created a rich tapestry of interconnected works that enhanced the depth and meaning of their individual contributions. [35:21]
In our spiritual journey, acknowledging the influence of others and referencing their contributions can create a rich tapestry of interconnected faith experiences. By recognizing and honoring the impact of others on our spiritual growth, we can enhance the depth and meaning of our own journey. The practice of referencing each other's work, as seen among the Inklings, serves as a reminder of the importance of community and mutual influence in our faith.
Think about the people who have influenced your spiritual journey. How can you acknowledge and honor their contributions? Reflect on the importance of recognizing and referencing the impact of others on your faith.
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: Who has significantly influenced your spiritual journey? How can you acknowledge and honor their contributions today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "They don't impose their own vision of that, but says, ah, I see where you're going. I see what you're attempting. And I am committed to be there and support you through the steps of that entire process. In my chapter on resonators, I talk about praise, praise for the work. I talk about encouragement, encouragement for the writer. I talk about the importance of pressure, simply putting a little pressure, leaning on one another to help that person actually buckle down and get the work done." [18:13]
2. "One of my favorite examples, probably the most important example of a resonator among the Inklings is Tolkien's work on The Lord of the Rings. It took him nearly 15 years to write that book. And at several points in the process, we know from his letters, he gave up. He gave up. He totally quit. He said, I'm done with this. I have worked on this. This isn't going anywhere. I don't know what to do next. I didn't want to do this in the first place. All of those things that assault any of us who are involved in any kind of long-term project. Tolkien had had it with The Lord of the Rings, but the Inklings believed in it. C.S. Lewis, in particular, wouldn't let it go. They wouldn't let him quit. They egged him on. They provoked him. They encouraged him. They, in so many different ways, are actually responsible for the completion of that work." [19:50]
3. "Let's talk about the second category that I discovered or uncovered with this inside view, and that's the idea of a challenge. It's the idea of opponents. Now, we don't think about wanting opponents. We don't think about seeking opponents. But, honestly, we need opponents. We need someone who will challenge us in such a way that it will bring out the best in us. We think about iron sharpening iron. We think about the importance on those Tuesdays at the Eagle and Child pub, of the intellectual debate that undergirded the work that they were doing. Those opportunities to argue and refine their thoughts, and not only to refine their understanding, but also to refine their ability to express themselves." [21:25]
4. "A third category of interaction among the Inklings is editors, where opponents try to actually combat or deny the value of something, or redirect the author altogether. An editor makes specific comments, giving specific advice and specific recommendations that can change the way it's written. Now, some of these can be big, and some of them can be very, very small. A word choice, a reference, an image that simply needs to be cleaned up, corrected." [26:19]
5. "When I think about collaboration proper, there's one aspect that is common among the Inklings that I think deserves special mention. And that's their tendency as they met together, as they worked together, as they hung out together, to create collaborative poetry. I think this is incredibly important, because it demonstrates just how interwoven their creative process was. Collaborative poetry, someone would throw out a line, someone would write the next line that rhymes and so on and so on, through the steps of a poem they would create on the fly." [29:21]
### Quotes for Members
1. "I think about the value of role modeling, that is inviting other people into our own creative process so that they can learn from our example those things that worked for us. I think about how valuable it is more and more within the scholarship that we do to think in terms of an apprenticeship. I think about how valuable it is more and more within the scholarship model. How can we help newer scholars in the field to accomplish their dreams and to achieve their goals by helping them to see not just what we have accomplished, but by seeing how we've gone about the work that we've done." [18:13]
2. "But another thing that an opponent can do is actually come against us and prevent us from dead ends. And that, too, is a gift for someone to be able to say, this isn't working. This isn't going anywhere. I know you're excited, excited about this. I love that. But this particular work isn't doing the job that you think it is. And in that light, I think about the profound impact of the Inklings as a group on Charles Williams." [21:25]
3. "Owen Barfield was a solicitor, a lawyer by trade, and when he heard the manuscript of The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and he shared that with his wife, Maude, they both came to a conclusion that this was a dangerous book, that if children were to read The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, no doubt they would be entering into wardrobes in their homes, closing the door behind them, getting locked in, and that Lewis would face lawsuits as a result. So Owen said, you need to include a warning in this book that children should not lock themselves in wardrobes." [26:19]
4. "The final category I'd like to talk about is a category called reference and this is a topic that deserves a book in its own and maybe someone will put that together someday. An anthology of all of the wonderful places where the Inklings actually write about one another. They cite one another's works. The Inklings show up in footnotes all over each other's books. They show up on dedication pages and of course on acknowledgement pages as well. They write poems about each other. They write poems together about joint experiences that they're having. And they also include each other as characters in each other's stories." [35:21]
5. "How can the example of the Inklings, how can this lively and committed interaction inform my work? How can it inform your work? Your work as a scholar, your work as an author, a teacher, a student, a speaker, your work as a pastor, an artist, a musician, a parent, a priest, an entrepreneur, your role as a friend. I think that is perhaps something that we can all share. The most important question that we can ask, the takeaway from this study is how do we refuse to give in to what I call the Bandersnatch impulse, the impulse to keep things to ourself, protect our drafts, commit to going it alone, to be reluctant to involve others, until we're really confident that our work is what it needs to be." [37:20]
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