From Library Journal
These poems and prose writings by the late poet laureate, one of Britain's best-loved writers, capture the intimate world of church life. Betjeman leads the reader to appreciate all aspects of the churches of England, from the architecture to the clergy, congregation, and ritual, enlivening famous Victorian churches and less mainstream chapels with comedy and honesty. Hogarth, a popular British artist, sensitively lends grace and detail to Betjeman's already observant eye with 80 watercolor paintings of church architecture and their surrounding landscapes. Most readers will gain a renewed, or first-time, understanding of the many facets of church life. Recommended for all public libraries.?Leroy Hommerding, Citrus Cty. Lib. System, Inverness, FLCopyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Book Description
John Betjeman's delightful evocation, in verse and prose, of the church and church life, gracefully rendered in 80 watercolor paintings. Now in paperback. Reading John Betjeman's writings on the church is a singular experience. No one has captured so completely that intimate world, with its clergy, congregation, architecture, and ritual. Betjeman's life was infused by a deep understanding and a very personal love of the church; he took endless pleasure in the vagaries of High and Low, and found in Christian life both inexhaustible comedy and the most profound truth. His range was complete, from eccentric chapels to High Victorian churches. In Praise of Churches brings together poems, prose, and paintings in a way that will amuse, surprise, and enlighten. The late Poet Laureate John Betjeman remains one of Britain's best-loved writers; In Praise of Churches is a perfect companion to his Illustrated Summoned by Bells. 144 pp 7 x 9 1/2 color illustrations throughout
In Praise of Churches FROM THE PUBLISHER
This work brings together John Betjeman's poems and prose and Paul Hogarth's paintings about the Church. Together, they demonstrate Betjeman's intimate knowledge of and love for the Church, both High and Low, and also his joy in the comedies and the small details of Church life.
FROM THE CRITICS
Library Journal
These poems and prose writings by the late poet laureate, one of Britain's best-loved writers, capture the intimate world of church life. Betjeman leads the reader to appreciate all aspects of the churches of England, from the architecture to the clergy, congregation, and ritual, enlivening famous Victorian churches and less mainstream chapels with comedy and honesty. Hogarth, a popular British artist, sensitively lends grace and detail to Betjeman's already observant eye with 80 watercolor paintings of church architecture and their surrounding landscapes. Most readers will gain a renewed, or first-time, understanding of the many facets of church life. Recommended for all public libraries.--Leroy Hommerding, Citrus Cty. Lib. System, Inverness, FL
Art & Photography
Book Info
