“I’m tall, fat, rather bald, red-faced, double-chinned, black-haired, have a deep voice, and wear glasses for reading.”
Image credits：Aronsyne,”Lewis, age 48″,CC BY-SA 4.0,C.S.-Lewis – C. S. Lewis – Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- November 29, 1898 – November 22, 1963
- Born in Ireland
- Writer, scholar
- Had a major influence on fantasy literature and religious thought through his many works, including the Chronicles of Narnia series and The Poetics of Christianity
Quote
“I’m tall, fat, rather bald, red-faced, double-chinned, black-haired, have a deep voice, and wear glasses for reading.”
Explanation
In this self-deprecating quote, C. S. Lewis humorously describes his own physical appearance in a series of contrasting and unflattering terms. By listing what might be considered imperfections or inconspicuous features, he downplays the idea of personal vanity and highlights his acceptance of himself as he is, embracing his physical traits without any pretension. Lewis’s casual enumeration of his physical characteristics suggests a lighthearted, humble attitude toward his own appearance, reinforcing the idea that outer appearance should not define one’s worth or how one is perceived in the world. This statement serves as a reminder that self-worth is rooted in more than just physical appearance and that humility and self-acceptance are essential virtues in dealing with how we see ourselves.
Historically, Lewis was known for his intellectual rigor and profound contributions to theology, literature, and philosophy, but he also had a more personal, relatable side. His humor and self-awareness about his appearance demonstrate his rejection of egoism or the obsession with outward appearance that can dominate modern culture. His ability to make light of himself in this way is consistent with his broader Christian worldview, where humility and spiritual focus are emphasized over superficial concerns.
In the modern context, this quote invites a reflection on self-image and the pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty or success. In a world that often prioritizes youthful appearance or physical attractiveness, Lewis’s description encourages us to embrace who we are without being overly concerned with our external features. His words remind us that true worth lies not in how we look but in who we are and the character we cultivate. This embrace of self-acceptance and humility challenges modern ideals of perfection, offering a more realistic and authentic way of viewing ourselves.
