Annunciation: The Passage's first giveaway

Today's post was written before Friday's attacks in Paris. I am running it because of my long advocacy for interfaith and intercultural dialogue (which may also include non-believers who wish to live in peace). That activity is not the solution to extremist terrorism, but, if we begin to talk across cultures earlier, expressing the hopes we share, we have a better chance at making violent acts abhorrent to all.


There are many qualities I admire about my friend Elizabeth Adams, the artist and publisher whom I met when I bought a copy of her Phoenicia Press book, "Waiting to Unfold" by Rachel Barenblat. I chose the collection of the poems, which Barenblat wrote weekly during her son's first year of life, as a gift for a friend's daughter pregnant with her own son.

I especially appreciate Beth's ability to conceive insightful, collaborative projects whether through art, music or poetry. Her request of the poets whom she invited to participate was to "think deeply and fearlessly and to write from your hearts."

As she notes, the theme is challenging: "The annunciation story is a complicated foundational story in western culture. Patriarchies have used Mary as a model for ideal feminine acceptance, faith and submission to authority, while at the same time, millions of people have identified with her courage, suffering and patience..."

So with great pleasure,  the windows are dressed with Phoenicia Press's latest publication, a poetry compilation titled "Annunciation: Sixteen Contemporary Poets Consider Mary".

I'll give a copy, via a draw, to a reader.



Of the poets, she says:
"Because part of my incentive for the book was to look at Mary from an interfaith, as well as secular, perspective, the poets are Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, and secular, and they've brought an amazing breadth to this volume. I am moved by the way in which each poet has managed to identify with Mary, and express some personal point of connection with clarity, emotion, and immediacy. It could have turned out to be a "religious" book but it's much bigger than that—it's a human book."

Beth is more than the book's editor; her striking linocuts illustrate its pages and cover.

If you would like to enter, please add "DRAW" to your comment. I'll put all names I receive today and tomorrow (until midnight EST) into a hat, ask my neighbour to pluck one, and announce the winner next week. The book will be shipped by the publisher at the end of November.

You might also consider "Annunciation" for a gift, or treat yourself to a certain outcome by ordering (there's a special now till November 20) from Phoenicia Publishing. Visit Phoenicia's page also to read the poet's comments about their approaches, a glimpse into the layers of memory and emotion that infused their contributions.

Ten per cent of the proceeds of "Annunciation" are donated directly to refugee relief for women.


Comments

materfamilias said…
I'm already planning to order a copy, having read about this book on Beth's blog, which I learned of through you some time ago, and regularly find inspiration in. But I'd be happy to win another for a gift.
Northmoon said…
I don't usually read poetry, but the concept of this book is very compelling and so timely, so I'd like to enter your DRAW. This book would make a good gift for a friend.

Only understanding across the artificial borders of humanity will create a safe world for everyone. We can't force our way to love.
Unknown said…
DRAW

Please enter my name for your DRAW for Annunciation. Thanks!
mary said…
thank you for giving space to this book--Draw!
I would like to add my name to the list for the draw...
having never studied religion I would welcome the opportunity to better understand the different faiths.
Thank you!
Mardel said…
I am already planning to order the book, and I have been reading Beth's blog for some time as well, following your recommendation. I will pass on the give away, as I'd rather that it went to someone who wouldn't have otherwise ordered.
This sounds fascinating, but I can borrow almost any Montréal-published book through Nelligan (Mtl libraries) or BANQ (La grande bibliothèque and am trying NOT to accumulate books, so better for someone afar.

I'm still very upset, as I've spent extended periods of time in Paris not very far from the cafés that were targets. Fortunately the weather is mild enough that I can ride my bicycle and process it all. Someone I've met (an academic who studied urban life) was killed, but nobody I really "knew".
diverchic said…
I'm in. It'll be perfect for my pregnant neice.
Kathyliz said…
This sounds like a wonderful book. Please enter me in the DRAW. Thank you for your wonderful blog.
Darla said…
The book sounds great. I read poetry fairly often and really like the illustration on the cover. Please enter my name. I don't comment often but I'm usually here reading.

Darla
LPC said…
Am not a poetry sort, so, no entry into the draw. But I did want to say, this is a wonderful thing to do in these times.
Barbara said…
Please enter me in your DRAW. The book sounds wonderful, as does her earlier one you mention, Waiting to Unfold. My daughter gave birth just 10 days ago and I wonder if it would be good for her to read now or to wait. Any thoughts on that?
Duchesse said…
Barbara: The determinant might be when she has time!
Beth said…
Thank you, Duchesse, for this extremely generous gesture. I'm delighted that so many of your readers expressed interest!
Beth said…
Thank you, Duchesse, for this extremely generous gesture. I'm delighted that so many of your readers expressed interest!

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