The world behind the wardrobe - October 12
Where universes were created
Outside 'The Bird and Baby'
I've read many books by CS Lewis... and I've often wondered about the man behind the work and the world around the man. I wrote my song Narnia because of the impact he had on me, whilst his books helped Jo through a particularly dark time at school. Recently we received an invitation via our friend Paul to visit Lewis' home. Our schedule is unbelievably busy right now, but this was a MUST!
It was glorious weather, the last really fab Summer day as we were welcomed by Debbie, warden of the house, the Kilns. She first led us through a path into a wooded area to a beautiful miniature lake where Lewis used to swim. This apparently is one of three pools of water and we were reminded of the wood between the worlds in The Magician's Nephew. It really felt like a magic place...
The sweet smell of honeysuckle lingered under the wooden arch to the garden, highlighting the charmed atmosphere accompanying the whole visit. The house had a special cosy feel. An old antique wardrobe faced a staircase leading to the upstairs where Lewis wrote the Narnia books beside a fireplace. Just to think he penned all those books here in longhand was thrilling. Among other rooms were his bedroom and an attic that resembled the place where as children Jack (Lewis) and his brother Warnie wrote their first stories together.
Debbie then took us into Lewis' dining room and laid on a delicious home-made cream tea and scones, replete with Turkish Delight... We were so enchanted by the whole experience and felt privileged to be invited in such a special way.
Afterwards Debbie and Paul showed us the Eagle and Child pub in the centre of Oxford where Lewis and Tolkien amongst others used to meet. Amazing to think of those two geniuses and brothers in spirit there sharing ideas as worlds flowed from their pens.
Thank you Debbie and Paul for an extraordinary day that we'll always remember and yes, we'd love to return...
Attic between the worlds | Next stop Narnia
Debbie and Paul in the garden
Floating orbs or lens flare?
