Book Review: Orthodoxy

Full of paradoxes and brilliant thoughts on our Christian religion, Orthodoxy by G. K. Chesterton is easily one of the most profound books I have ever read. Every chapter is packed with wisdom, wit, and wonderful writing. Chesterton deals with the mysteries and hidden wonders of our orthodoxy in a truly incredible way. He was humorous, highly skilled, and wise in his writings. I love this book for so many reasons. There is so much truth throughout the entire work. So many conundrums of our orthodoxy are put into a fascinating new light. Chesterton allows us to laugh at ourselves and to marvel at the universe God has made.

G. K. Chesterton was a devout Catholic. He was a man of wit, genius, deep thoughts, and insight into the mysteries of reality. His book, Orthodoxy, was first published in 1908, and in his own words, “The only possible excuse for this book is that it is an answer to a challenge. Even a bad shot is dignified when he accepts a duel.” (Orthodoxy) Chesterton had recently published a collection of papers titled “Heretics” and had received heavy criticism. He wrote Orthodoxy in response, to combat the criticisms and to give an account on why he believed what he believed — namely Christianity.

This book covers topics such as creativity, relativism, mindsets, insanity, the depths of our world, and many other such things. Orthodoxy is a dense book to be sure. It is completely saturated with complex ideas — so much so, that it can be difficult to read or get the whole way through. This is, after all, a book of deep theology and philosophy. It is hardly possible to read in one sitting nor would it be giving full justice to its worth. It requires effort to mull over and to ponder the depths of the words. It takes time to process all that has been written in the pages.

So take it slow, soak in his words. Ponder over the complexities that he lays out. Perhaps not all of it is to be agreed with, but there is a vast amount of eye-opening truths to be found inside. Chesterton had his eyes open. He saw the world differently than the people around him and wasn’t afraid to share his opinions. He was “The poet [who] only asks to get his head into the heavens.” (Orthodoxy)

Orthodoxy is one of my favorite classics of all time. Between the vibrant descriptions, awe-inspiring syllogisms, and the beautiful reminders of truth, Orthodoxy is a book that most people should read at least once in their lifetime. It has changed my perspective on aspects of our world and beliefs. Through this book I have been given a deeper sense of awe for creation and a chance to get a closer look at the mysterious way in which our Lord moves.

Reference: Chesterton, Gilbert Keith. Orthodoxy.