The Altar Fire   By: Arthur Christopher Benson (1862-1925)

The Altar Fire by Arthur Christopher Benson is a deeply moving and thought-provoking novel that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of faith. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the lives of two siblings, Bernard and Hilda, as they navigate the challenges and trials of their respective religious callings.

From the very beginning, Benson's lyrical prose captivates the reader, painting vivid images of the English countryside and the tranquil village of Staplehurst. The author's descriptive language beautifully captures the essence of nature and its ability to inspire awe and wonder. Through his deft storytelling, Benson artfully weaves together the external beauty of the natural world with the captivating inner journeys of his characters.

The novel primarily focuses on the spiritual journey of the introspective and contemplative protagonist, Bernard. As a young man grappling with questions of faith and purpose, Bernard embarks on a quest to find meaning in his life. Through his encounters with various influential figures, including a wise old priest and a charismatic yet enigmatic spiritual mentor, Bernard begins to unravel the mysteries of his own soul. It is within these encounters that Benson reveals his profound insights into the nature of spirituality and the complexities of religious devotion.

But it is Bernard's relationship with his sister Hilda that truly shines throughout the narrative. Their bond, portrayed with great depth and authenticity, serves as the emotional core of the story. The siblings' contrasting paths - Bernard's pursuit of a religious vocation and Hilda's journey towards love and marriage - create a fascinating exploration of the struggles and joys inherent in the pursuit of different kinds of calling.

Furthermore, Benson's exploration of the role of doubt within faith is particularly compelling. Bernard grapples with uncertainties and moments of profound disillusionment that threaten to undermine his spiritual journey. As he questions his beliefs and confronts the darker aspects of human nature, Bernard's faith is ultimately strengthened, as he discovers that doubt can be a gateway to deeper understanding and renewed conviction.

The Altar Fire is a beautifully rendered novel that delves into the depths of the human spirit and explores the complexities of religious experience. Arthur Christopher Benson's exquisite prose, nuanced character development, and exploration of profound spiritual themes make this book a captivating and rewarding read. It is a testament to the power of literature to illuminate the human condition and remind us of the universal search for meaning and purpose in our lives.

First Page:

It will perhaps be said, and truly felt, that the following is a morbid book. No doubt the subject is a morbid one, because the book deliberately gives a picture of a diseased spirit. But a pathological treatise, dealing with cancer or paralysis, is not necessarily morbid, though it may be studied in a morbid mood. We have learnt of late years, to our gain and profit, to think and speak of bodily ailments as natural phenomena, not to slur over them and hide them away in attics and bedrooms. We no longer think of insanity as demoniacal possession, and we no longer immure people with diseased brains in the secluded apartments of lovely houses. But we still tend to think of the sufferings of the heart and soul as if they were unreal, imaginary, hypochondriacal things, which could be cured by a little resolution and by intercourse with cheerful society; and by this foolish and secretive reticence we lose both sympathy and help. Mrs. Proctor, the friend of Carlyle and Lamb, a brilliant and somewhat stoical lady, is recorded to have said to a youthful relative of a sickly habit, with stern emphasis, "Never tell people how you are! They don't want to know... Continue reading book >>