Josemaría Escrivá is widely known as the author of many inspirational works, including "Furrow", "The Way", "Christ is Passing By", and "The Forge". One of his followers, Francis Fernandez, has written a popular seven volume work titled "In Conversation with God", a daily devotional based largely upon St. Escrivá's teachings. The latter work is often praised as a "more accessible" Imitation of Christ.
Some critics have described his character as less than saintly, particularly in his attitude towards women.
Some have criticised Escrivá's apparently excessive enthusiasm for the practices of flagellation and mortification of the flesh; he is recorded as having whipped himself until the wall of the room was splattered with blood. In his writings, he stated: "Blessed be pain. Loved be pain. Sanctified be pain. . . Glorified be pain!" (The Way, 208). His supporters think this is a fair and holy virtue (mortification), while critics have suggested that this behavior was more indicative of the paraphilia of algolagnia than sanctity.
Critics also point to a presumable Fascist link saying that he was a supporter of Francisco Franco.