'Orthodoxy' by G. K. Chesterton 

Book Review

'Orthodoxy' is a rich, thoughtful attempt at an explanation and defence of the deeper ideas and values which underlie Christian thought and faith. Chesterton argues forcefully for the place of intuition, feeling, romance and ideals in thinking and sane reflection. Imagination, states Chesterton, is saner and healthier even than logic or rationality. 

Part of the undeniable charm of Orthodoxy is this uncompromising approach to the broad questions of thought and understanding. Thinking should be an expansive process and not only a matter of closing paths of intellectual enquiry. Paradox and contradiction have their place; understanding is best rooted in a deep and abiding respect for mystery. 

Chesterton makes no apology for the fact that his writing is personal and sweeping. The result for the reader is a work filled with insights carefully explained through analogy and imagery, absent apologetic jargon, instead peppered with humour and anecdote. 

Some comment may be made of the fact that Orthodoxy was written and published almost a century ago. However this in no way detracts from the author's arguments and observations. Indeed, it is surprising that Chesterton's writing seems as fresh and inspried today as when it was first written.

Orthodoxy is, in conclusion, a classic with a reputation well-earned, not least for its widespread appeal and durability. Both serious and funny, its call, such as that of a clarion, for people everywhere to believe in something, to adopt some coherent framework of thought and comprehension, is perhaps more important than ever before.