Caryll Houselander

Caryll Houselander (1901 – 1954)

Caryll Houselander was a genuine Catholic mystic in a century that produced precious few true Catholic mystics, a “Rocking Horse Catholic” and “Divine Eccentric” who chain-smoked, threw back alcohol like sparkling water, and was a gifted writer, artist, and therapist. Caryll Houselander, unfortunately, does not have the recognition she deserves.

Caryll was born to a family of Anglicans, but when her parents separated when she was nine, her mother converted to Catholicism. Caryll herself was fully received into the Church. Her coming into the Church at a late stage of childhood led her to call herself a “Rocking Horse Catholic” as opposed to a cradle Catholic. The name became the title of her celebrated autobiography.  A rebellious teen (who would grow into a rebellious mature woman), Caryll left the Church only to return in 1925 after a series of mystical experiences and internal conversations with Christ that convinced her He is present in all people and especially in the most unconventional, radical and odd people like herself.

Caryll became a prolific author and, aside from books, contributed countless articles to Catholic magazines. Even though Caryll was part of the great Catholic revival in 20^th Century English literature, including G.K. Chesterton, Ronald Knox, and Graham Greene, Caryll stood out with her eccentricities, un-British passions and passions habits, and mysticism mixed with practical pursuits like art. Even though she fell in love with Sidney Reilly, the legendary Jewish-English “Ace of Spies” and man of great mystery, the marriage never happened, and Caryll remained single her entire life.

During World War II, Caryll was gifted with a profound therapeutic power with people suffering from fear and anxiety during the Blitz and the horrific daily death and destruction. Even though she was not licensed or clinically trained, Caryll was able to help people in a way that left professionals and clergy in awe of her. Caryll died of breast cancer in 1954 at the age of 53, leaving a treasure of mystical and spiritual work that continues to be mined to this day.

The Caryll Houselander tile was created in 2022. Our 12" X 12" signed and numbered reproduction is created on stretch canvas and is suitable for matting and framing.