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November 18, 2008
Wandering through the captivating pages of Ben Boos' Swords: An Artist's Devotion, I suddenly recalled a section from the preface of E.R. Eddison's praiseworthy translation of Egil's Saga in which he states that "of Egil's personal character the saga and the specimens of his own poetry which it preserves can speak more eloquently than any latter-day translator. I will only say that the school of criticism which questions the veracity of the saga on the ground that (for example) the gouger out of Armod's eye could not in nature be also the tender and sublime poet of the Sonatorrek, is a school which knows little of humanity. In his pride, his reckless violence, his selfishness, as well of his love of his art...he stands side by side with Benvenuto Cellini."  The same may be said of Ben Boos' Swords.
The unmistakable depth of history and artistry which is bound up in these
weapons illustrates not only the singular importance of swords in world
cultures, but also the complex wellsprings of humanity which are bound
up in their making. The beauty of the book is oddly moving, as though the book has captured not a dichotomy or an enigma, but a profound layering of passion, artistry and purpose, a book which is truly an extension of its subject.
Here they are! Our weekly picks for the two best: two hardcover, two paperback, and two children's books. The very best new arrivals to leap out of the box and onto our shelves this week. Call or email us if you want more information on any of these titles, or to have us hold you a copy. Or stop in and check them out in person. We'd love to see you. Thanks as always for sharing your reading with us! |