The Bronze Serpent
Liturgical Poems 1975–2014
- Arts & Literature
- Publisher: Resource Publications (Wipf and Stock)
- Published: 2023
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Publisher's Description
Deeply interested in theology but never satisfied with the commonplaces of faith, Edward Lense wrote liturgical poems that delve into the meaning of belief. Both free verse and formalist, they employ biblical imagery such as transformative fire, living water, spiritual cleansing, and certainty of salvation to reveal their importance for modern times. Following the tradition of Milton, Donne, George Herbert, and T. S. Eliot, the poet tells of no easy principle of acceptance but the epiphany of revelation after searching.
Endorsements (2)
“In a contemporary poetry scene that too often privileges those who would pose among the commonplace, Edward Lense’s The Bronze Serpent refuses to assume the position. These poems are unapologetically sophisticated, both poetically and noetically. With careful attention to pitch and pulse, Lense composes a definitive musicality that speaks to the ear and the heart: this accomplished work challenges the mind as surely as it braces the spirit. His meditations are devotional in every better sense.”
“The most profound form of faith is one that makes room for questions and doubt. These poems offer meditations on familiar biblical stories as well as restrained but cogent re-imaginations of their relevance to modern spirituality that are valuable regardless of one’s religious or philosophical inclinations.”
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