Thompson, James Westfall.

The Lost Oracles. A Masque.

Chicago, Walter M. Hill, 1921. 16.3 cm x 24.9 cm. XI, 143 pages. Original Hardcover. Good condition with signs of external wear. Moderate foxing to front and rear hardcover. Slight tear to upper spine. Corners frayed. Foxing throughout, markedly on half-title page. Deckled and discoloured edges. A few notes in pencil at upper right of front pastedown This edition consists of five hundred numbered and signed copies, of which this is number 57. Signed by the author. Includes Vilhelm Meyer’s blindstamp and blue ink inscription on front enpaper. From the reference library of Hans Christian-Andersen Translator, Erik Haugaard.

Includes for example the following: The oracles are spread out over six Acts including Capri, Pathmos, Space: The Seven Heavens, Heaven: The Last Judgement, The Lost Oracles, an interlude and finally The Consecration and the Poet’s Dream.

The Book of Revelation, sometimes known as the Apocalypse, and traditionally but erroneously ascribed to Saint John, was the basis of many a mediaeval mystery. In more modern times its sublime scenes and gorgeous imagery has furnished forth a number of oratorios (though no opera, so far as I am aware), and been the subject of many a painter’s brush. Under the circumstances it may seem presumptuous to think that any new and fresh interpretation of so old a theme is possible. Yet I venture to hope that in the dramatization of the struggle between the pagan cults of antiquity and early Christianity here presented, both the Apocalypse and the Death of the Gods have received a new literary valuation. For I have tried to touch with modern poetry and modern passion one of the most tragically beautiful episodes in the history of human culture. (Excerpt from book introduction)

• Keywords: American Poetry Collection · Ancient Greece · Ancient Religion · Drama · Religion
• Language: English
• Inventory Number: 200220AB

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