Shaken Bible

A Shaken Bible is a unique blend of classics, criticism, and creative writing that revives familiar passages by setting them in playful dialogue with each other, demonstrating how the scriptures are fragmented collages and collapsing the Alpha and Omega into a Bible of the 'broken middle'. It is a feast of rich, re-worked, largely seventeenth-century English that speaks significant truth to those who have ears to hear.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2021
Publisher: UEA Publishing Project

A Shaken Bible is a captivating work that weaves together a tapestry of quotations from various sources, including the King James Bible, William Blake, Gilgamesh, and the works of seventeenth-century Ranter Abiezer Cobbe. These quotations have been intricately translated into the Yorkshire dialect, creating a unique and immersive experience for readers.

One of the key features of A Shaken Bible is its ability to revive familiar passages by setting them in playful dialogue with each other. This approach challenges the traditional notion of the scriptures as a cohesive and unchanging text, instead revealing them as fragmented collages that have been pieced together over centuries. By juxtaposing different passages, the book highlights the contradictions and complexities within the Bible, emphasizing the human nature of its authors and the evolving nature of its message.

Another striking aspect of A Shaken Bible is its exploration of the concept of the "broken middle." This term, coined by Gillian Rose, refers to the period in the Bible's narrative when God's presence is felt to be absent or distant. In A Shaken Bible, this period is collapsed into a Bible of the "broken middle," where the Alpha and Omega are brought together in a way that challenges traditional interpretations. This approach offers a fresh perspective on the scriptures and encourages readers to engage with them in a more nuanced and thoughtful way.

Steven Hanson, the author of A Shaken Bible, defies academic and theological traditions while retaining a strong core of theory. He combines classics, criticism, and creative writing to create a unique blend of insights and perspectives. Hanson's writing is rich, re-worked, and largely seventeenth-century English, creating a feast of language that is both captivating and intellectually stimulating.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of A Shaken Bible is its sheer surface sumptuousness. The language is beautifully written, with vivid imagery and evocative descriptions that transport readers to different times and places. The book's playful dialogue and humorous moments add to its charm, making it an engaging and accessible read for anyone interested in the Bible or literature.

In its curious, eloquently frustrating, and uncanny way, A Shaken Bible speaks significant truth. It challenges readers to think critically about the scriptures and their place in modern society. It encourages them to engage with the text on a deeper level and to consider the many different interpretations and perspectives that have been offered over the centuries.

Overall, A Shaken Bible is a remarkable work that offers a fresh and innovative approach to the Bible. Its playful dialogue, fragmented collages, and exploration of the "broken middle" make it a captivating and thought-provoking read for anyone interested in religion, literature, or the human condition. Whether you are a seasoned scholar or a casual reader, this book will leave you with a renewed appreciation for the power and complexity of the scriptures.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 130 x 197 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911343745