Good Friday, and other poems

Name: Good Friday, and other poems
Author: John Masefield

By John Masefield

Open in WeRead

Explore more books like this:

Poetry Religion/Spirituality

About This Book

A compact collection of dramatic and lyrical poems that probe Christian imagery, human guilt, and the clash between authority and conscience. The opening dramatic piece stages a trial and its aftermath through Roman and Jewish figures, using vivid theatrical scenes, prophetic dreams, and crowd dynamics to evoke suffering and portent. Other poems shift between narrative verse and intimate devotional reflection, pairing stark ritual or landscape settings with intense moral questioning. The language ranges from robust, dramatic speech to quieter meditations, consistently exploring themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the burdens of leadership and faith.

About the Author

John Masefield

John Masefield was an English poet, novelist, and playwright, known for his vivid storytelling and lyrical style. Born in 1878, he gained prominence in the early 20th century, contributing significantly to English literature. Masefield's works often explore themes of adventure, the sea, and human experience. His notable works include the narrative poem "A Ballad of John Silver," which draws inspiration from Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island," and the poignant war poem "Gallipoli," reflecting on the horrors of conflict. Masefield served as Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1930 until his death in 1967, leaving a lasting legacy in the literary world.