The Epitaph C.S. Lewis Wrote for Joy Davidman

Here the whole world (stars, water, air,
And field, and forest, as they were
Reflected in a single mind)
Like cast off clothes was left behind
In ashes, yet with hopes that she,
Re-born from holy poverty,
In lenten lands, hereafter may
Resume them on her Easter Day.

+ C.S. Lewis

Lewis and Davidman married relatively late in life, and after Davidman had already been diagnosed with terminal cancer. Their relationship is chronicled in the acclaimed film, “Shadowlands.”

The epitaph, composed in four couplets, testifies to how a person is indeed a “whole world…Reflected in a single mind.” It’s a poignant blend of love and Lent, celebration and struggle – perfect for a year in which Ash Wednesday and Valentine’s Day are one and the same.

And for those who’d like to travel with Lewis through the season of Lent, check out SALT’s devotional, “C.S. Lewis and the Delightful, Diabolical Daring of Lent: A Lenten Companion to ‘The Screwtape Letters.’”