I don’t think either are better than the other, but they portray different elements of Joy (I’ve seen both and have copies of both, but it has been years since I’ve seen either to compare the way the two portrayed Joy). What you remember of Debra Winger, however, is quite similar to a side of Joy in the letters; she really could be quite rough and vulgar (in the classical sense). Nonetheless, I seem to remember Douglas approved of Claire Bloom’s portrayal so I think there is an element of her presentation which also fits. But I do think the vulgar aspects you find with Debra Winger is true to Joy (when you read the letters, you can see it).

One of the things which is quite interesting to read is Joy’s political vision as she lives in America. She sees the American political landscape based upon the British experience, and it provides a very interesting take of the times. She really didn’t seem to like Ike.

This is not a deep question. I am wondering if you saw both versions of Shadowlands, and if so, who do you think gave the more accurate portrayal of Joy, Claire Bloom or Debra Winger? Winger played Joy as somewhat crude or vulgar, as the movie script clearly required. I think both versions are based on the same play, but I don’t remember Claire Bloom playing the part that way.

I think so many of us sense that Lewis enigma, and we all see elements of the answer though never enough to feel as if everything has been entirely explained. I hope one day Tolkien’s essay gets released; because I do think much of the enigma, which we both have with Lewis, would be explained in full there, and by a person who knew Lewis better on this than anyone else.