Award-winning author and illustrator John Hendrix joins the discussion, bringing his expertise from teaching at Washington University. He dives into the profound friendship between C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien and how it inspired his graphic novel. Hendrix shares insights on the collaborative creative process, exploring themes of loss and community feedback. The conversation also touches on illustrating Christian themes and the artistic dimensions of Jesus' parables, enriching our understanding of narrative and myth.
John Hendrix's graphic novel, 'The Myth Makers,' visually captures the profound fellowship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, redefining their legacy in literary art.
The discussion around myths emphasizes their role as reflections of human truths, illustrating the transformative impact of storytelling on culture and community.
Deep dives
The Inspiration Behind 'The Myth Makers'
The creation of 'The Myth Makers' was driven by a deep admiration for C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, with the author expressing a desire to contribute something meaningful to their legacy. The concept was initially rooted in fan art that sought to bring to life the shared worlds of Middle Earth and Narnia, as well as the Inklings, their literary group. This book strives to visually capture the essence of their fellowship, something that has not been fully represented in illustrations before. The author believed that combining narration, depiction, and exposition creates a unique language that resonates with readers, unlocking insights about their shared creative lives.
The Impact of Lewis and Tolkien on Literature
C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien had a profound influence on 20th-century literature and popular culture, changing the landscape of fantasy storytelling and establishing foundations for modern fan culture. Their chance meeting led to the sale of over 250 million copies of their works, which continue to inspire adaptations and reinterpretations, such as the recent cinematic projects based on their stories. The authors also engaged with their fans, responding to letters and fostering a connection that encouraged a sense of community around their writings, which had been a novel concept at the time. This dynamic allowed readers to feel a personal connection to the authors, bridging the gap between creator and audience in ways that were particularly innovative during their era.
Understanding Myths and Their Modern Relevance
The discussion around myths reveals that they should not merely be viewed as untruths, but as reflections of shared human narratives and truths that resonate across cultures and timelines. The book attempts to explain Tolkien's concept of myth, suggesting that stories lay the groundwork for understanding significant events in life, such as the essence of resurrection. Tolkien and Lewis were not consciously aiming to create a lasting legacy but rather crafting stories that spoke to their experiences and cultural context immediately following World War II. This rich tapestry of myth-making strikes a chord in today's society, reminding readers of the endurance of storytelling in shaping beliefs and cultures.
The Artistic Process Behind 'The Myth Makers'
The artistic journey for 'The Myth Makers' involved a complex process of drafting and refining ideas over several years, with the author aiming to balance narrative and illustration. The necessity to create a compelling story about two intellectuals who largely engaged in conversation posed its own challenges, prompting the use of visual metaphors and creative liberty to inspire reader engagement. Throughout the development, the author faced moments of self-doubt and frustration but ultimately found clarity in the emotional resonance of the characters’ stories, which culminated in a powerful ending that reflects their intertwined legacies. This work highlights the importance of collaboration and feedback in the creative process, demonstrating how community input can elevate an artistic vision.
In addition to creating myths themselves, the friendship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien is the stuff of myth and legend. Join Dr. Jim Beitler, Director of the Marion E. Wade Center, and co-host Aaron Hill as they sit down with illustrator and professor John Hendrix to discuss his latest graphic novel, The Mythmakers: The Remarkable Fellowship of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. We discuss the visual language that Hendrix created for The Inklings, his creative process, and the ways in which Lewis and Tolkien impacted the 20th and 21st centuries.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode