G.K. Chesterton [Paperback]

In this close reading of his work, Michael D. Hurley brings G.K. Chesterton's divided selves together. Covering the full range of his diverse genres, Hurley shows how Chesterton thinks through language, in ways that confound attempts to read him as a thinker without first appreciating him as a writer.Novelist, essayist, poet, playwright, historian, journalist, Christian apologist, literary and social critic, G.K. Chesterton was one of the most protean and prolific writers of his age, perhaps of any age. Bernard Shaw called him a 'colossal genius'. Most readers have certainly found him too big to see whole, and have therefore cut him in half. The 'poet' is severed from the philosopher; he is treated either as a phrase-maker or as a mystic; his quirky writings are enjoyed as an aesthetic end in themselves, or they are praised for their contribution to theology. In this close reading of his work, Michael D. Hurley brings Chesterton's divided selves together. Covering the full range of his diverse genres, Hurley shows how Chesterton thinks through language, in ways that confound attempts to read him as a thinker without first appreciating him as a writer.Biographical Outline
Introduction
Fiction
Poetry
Essays
Biography
History
Select Biography Hurley's discussion is unfailingly and extraordinarily valuable, informative, and judicious... It is a prime value of Michael Hurley's fine book to make us grateful for Chesterton and his works and to send us back to the texts for refreshment and renewal.
Essays in Criticism

This delightful and beautifully written book should be in the hands of everyone who loves G.K. Chesterton... a dazzling discussion.
The Chesterton Review

Clear, readable and perceptive.
Literature and Theology

The choice of works studied is original and wide-ranging, and the analysis offered is of great interest. Hurley genuinely opens up new ground. It is also admirable how, even when looking at things thaló!