Fantasy and Shell Shock: How Two Authors Re-enchanted the Western Mind
Fri Feb 06 2026
Summary
This conversation explores the profound impact of World War I on authors J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, examining how their experiences of disillusionment and trauma shaped their literary works. It delves into the concept of the monomyth, the role of fantasy in confronting darkness, and the importance of storytelling and language in understanding human values and cultural identity. The discussion highlights how these authors used their narratives to provide hope and meaning during times of crisis, emphasizing the enduring relevance of their works in today's world.
Guest Links
https://www.josephloconte.com/
Chapters
00:00 The Lost Monomyth: A Cultural Reflection
01:00 Disillusionment and the Impact of War
06:34 Fantasy as a Response to Darkness
10:59 The Role of Education in Times of Crisis
17:38 C.S. Lewis: The Reluctant Convert
23:30 The Power of Storytelling in Shaping Reality
31:26 Language and the Art of Storytelling
38:36 The Importance of Historical Perspective
40:31 The Power of the Heart and Mind Connection
41:35 Understanding Coherence and Its Impact
41:45 Introduction to Resilience and Growth
To contribute to the the Post-Traumatic Growth of Veterans click here. To learn more about Mission 22's impact and programs, visit www.mission22.org or find us on social media. IG: @mission_22. Tiktok: @_mission22
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Summary This conversation explores the profound impact of World War I on authors J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis, examining how their experiences of disillusionment and trauma shaped their literary works. It delves into the concept of the monomyth, the role of fantasy in confronting darkness, and the importance of storytelling and language in understanding human values and cultural identity. The discussion highlights how these authors used their narratives to provide hope and meaning during times of crisis, emphasizing the enduring relevance of their works in today's world. Guest Links https://www.josephloconte.com/ Chapters 00:00 The Lost Monomyth: A Cultural Reflection 01:00 Disillusionment and the Impact of War 06:34 Fantasy as a Response to Darkness 10:59 The Role of Education in Times of Crisis 17:38 C.S. Lewis: The Reluctant Convert 23:30 The Power of Storytelling in Shaping Reality 31:26 Language and the Art of Storytelling 38:36 The Importance of Historical Perspective 40:31 The Power of the Heart and Mind Connection 41:35 Understanding Coherence and Its Impact 41:45 Introduction to Resilience and Growth To contribute to the the Post-Traumatic Growth of Veterans click here. To learn more about Mission 22's impact and programs, visit www.mission22.org or find us on social media. IG: @mission_22. Tiktok: @_mission22