The Figure at Loch Ossian

 

This photo was actually taken last year but I came across it and I still think it is as interesting. When walking up around Loch Ossian I spied this figure in the grounds of the estate house (as you can see the fence doesn't really obscure the view) but it looked odd, it felt as if there was something alien about it. He's far enough away that he might not notice me looking but I still felt a bit like I wasn't ment to see him standing there in silent contemplation... as it turns out he's a sculpture, and reminds me of something by Gormley. The close up below gives a better silhouette. There is something eerie, yet visually pleasing, about it and the trees, it makes me think of the walkers amongst the sentinel trees in the forest north of the Wall in Westeros. 

 



Book Review: The Narnia Code by Michael Ward

This book is a review of a larger volume entitled ‘Planet Narnia’ which sets out Ward’s argument that the chronicles of Narnia were written with underlying structure based upon the seven planets of the pre-Copernican solar system. While it is an easy read this sets out in a simple and easily understandable manner the analysis and evidence for this perspective. Ward illustrates how this structure and metaphorical imagery symbolises God and Jesus Christ.

 

This was an interesting read, however, I found it very repetitive and with slightly too much of a Christian theological slant to it rather than taking an impartial view to the Christian/religious message within Lewis’ novels. This being said it is, in my opinion, a good example of critical analysis for those starting out in the literary research line. I like reading about how author's write, their process and thinking style and structures* so this was an enjoyable read and a good small book to have in my bag for 5min gaps of time or sitting on the train etc. It provides good overview of the planetary symbolism which is often lost to those today who did not study classics at school, which echo’s to what Lewis himself stated about the old language and meaning behind it being hidden but still of use today.

 

I would recommend it to those with an interest in the deeper meaning behind the Narnia stories as well as those interested in literary analysis, though I expect that the original volume would provide a greater insight for those looking for something less aligned with light-reading.

 

*I would highly recommend Haruki Murikami's 'What I talk about when I talk about running' for this also although it is a minor theme within this book also.