A Masterwork of Doubting-Belief

by John G. McEllhenney

R. S. Thomas (1913-2000) was a major poet of the twentieth century. He was respected by luminaries of the literary establishment, recognized with numerous awards, and nominated for the Nobel Prize in 1996. Thomas was also a priest of the Anglican Communion who wrestled ceaselessly with problems of faith and doubt in his poetry. John G. McEllhenney makes R. S. Thomas' poems, ministry, and irascible character come brilliantly alive in his new book, A Masterwork of R. S. Thomas and His Poetry. McEllhenney, who developed a personal relationship with Thomas during the last decade of the poet's life, draws on his conversations and correspondence with Thomas, as well as his experiences as a clergyman and lover of poetry, and offers readers a unique experience that is part biography, part appreciation, and part religious meditation. A Masterwork of Doubting-Belief is an important new contribution to our understanding of R. S. Thomas and an inspiring source of insights for all who struggle with their faith!

Genres: Poetry

146 pages, Paperback

First published February 13, 2013

Reviews

[Liam Guilar · Rating 2 out of 5]

An uneven book. It begins well with an explanation of the idea of Doubting-belief and its application to Thomas' poetry.

As a way into the theology of Thomas' poetry it's good, if repetitive. The idea of a hyphenated belief, a hyphenated God and a hyphenated Thomas does illuminate some of the poems.

But the book tends to repeat itself, and is part analysis, part notes and part memoire. Sadly for the reader who doesn't know writer or subject, the memoire part, while honest and affectionate, doesn't add much to the analysis or knowledge of the subject. Notes from meetings with Thomas, including details of what was eaten, the inclusion of correspondence which reveals little about Thomas as person or poet, are included and could have just as easily have been left out.

[Len Knighton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was introduced the John McEllheney and the poetry of RS THOMAS about month ago. Both are captivating. Thomas' hyphenated God was the creator of a hyphenated Thomas and a hyphenated me. A doubter-believer. Can a Christian go through life, truly living, and not be one? The adage GOD IS IN CONTROL reflects a hyphenated Christian I do not want to be: one who releases all into God's hands while at the same time releasing what makes us unique: the image of God. Thomas' poetry hopefully will live on for generations to come. McEllheney's book, showing a real love and affection for Thomas, should ensure that.