Books That Clear Fog From the Soul

There is a great deal of discussion about cognitive dysfunction (also known as "brain fog") these days--experiences of mental confusion or lack of mental clarity. It is called "fog" because it feels like a cloud that reduces visibility or clarity.

The result of any number of factors, one underrated possibility is the condition of one's soul. Plato said, "A sensible man will remember that the eyes may be confused in two ways--by a change from light to darkness, or from darkness to light; and he will recognize that the same thing happens to the soul."

When confusion exists in the soul, the following books can help to clear the fog:

The Everlasting Man (by G.K. Chesterton) The soul must be touched, provoked, engaged before fog begins to lift. Chesterton's The Everlasting Man remains a great platform from which to provoke thought about the uniqueness of humans and to challenge those who embrace a materialist worldview (most moderns). This is the book C.S. Lewis credited with "baptising" his intellect, and the book he called the "best popular apologetic I know". Avoid the recent Wilder Publications edition (pictured in this link). It is poorly edited.

Orthodoxy (by G.K. Chesterton) Written by "The Apostle of Common Sense", this book is an excellent place to start to address the questions of modernity and faith. This entertaining and enchanting book is for anyone who has, or has ever had, an ounce of foggy skepticism in them.

On the Incarnation: De Incarnatione Verbi De (by St. Athanasius) This fourth century masterpiece (make sure to acquire the translation with C.S. Lewis' Introduction) cogently addresses the foundational and stunning truth that God came to earth in human flesh. Many foggy ideas about God and man can be made clear from this starting point.

Mere Christianity (by C.S. Lewis) A simple and popular defense of traditional theism (in Christian form), logically presented and beautifully expressed. Lewis, a Protestant (Anglican), and one of the great modern thinkers and communicators, succeeded in presenting a clear exposition of revealed truth common to, and profitable for, all faithful Christians. This book is not a technical and exhaustive treatment of any subject, but it is a popularly written book that has proven an effective fog-lifter for scores of confused people for decades.

Theology for Beginners (by F.J. Sheed) This is perhaps the best introductory book on Catholic theology in print. Simply and clearly written by a Catholic street evangelist familiar with every question and challenge to Catholic teaching, it is a clarifying delight to read. It is valuable, and perhaps enlightening, for Protestants and other people of good will to read as well. 

Authenticity: A Biblical Theology of Discernment (by Fr. Thomas Dubay) A deeply insightful look at very practical subjects--prayer and discernment, and the danger of self-deception.

This Tremendous Lover (by M. Eugene Boylan) A spiritual classic that will deepen faith and provide practical guidance on living a devout Christian life. Written by a Trappist monk and dealing specifically with life in the Catholic Church, this book will best be appreciated by Catholics, but profitable for all ecumenically-minded Christians.