A Severe Mercy: A Story of Faith, Tragedy and Triumph

How does the author’s view of death change throughout the story, from his early days with Davy to the end, after her death and the death of Joy (Lewis’s wife)?

What is the “severe mercy” for which the book is named, and how does the concept transform the author’s grieving period after Davy’s death?

Are there major themes to the various poems woven into the narrative? How do they add emotional depth to the story?

Why do Van and Davy determine that they wish to remain childless at the beginning of their courtship? Does their view of children change at any point? Why or why not?

Plot out the various locations Van and Davy call home over the years and show how their worldview changes along with their change in location.

What is the Shining Barrier? How does it come into existence, what role does it play in their relationship, and does their understanding of the Shining Barrier ever change?

Van and Davy begin their courtship and marriage as self-described “pagans” devoted to specific ideals. Using specific examples, show how their ideals are changed or modified after their conversion to Christianity.

Examine how Van and Davy’s desire for a boat and a life on the sea is a motif throughout the narrative, from their initial desire related in Chapter 2 to their abandonment of the desire at the end of their lives.