Lectio Violant

<p>The poems in this book are improvisations arising from contemplative readings of four chapters of the 1611 edition of the King James Bible-Matthew VI Mark V Luke XV and Luke X. <em>Lectio Violant</em>-'profane reading'-is the name I've coined to describe this process alluding to <em>Lectio Divina</em>-'divine reading'-the long-established Catholic practice of devotional reading the purpose of which is to draw the reader closer to God by enabling a fuller experience of scripture. I'm not sure this book's doing the same thing although you never know. -Steve Ely</p><p><br></p><p>Steve Ely is one of the most exhilarating poets currently working in the UK.</p><p> -Katy Evans Bush <em>Poetry International</em></p><p> </p><p>Ely's poetry is passionately political positively partisan ... a major talent.</p><p> -Keith Richmond <em>Tribune</em></p><p> </p><p>Steve Ely has one of the strongest lines around compounding scriptural weight and northern realism. He has also reclaimed history as poetry's subject.</p><p> -Peter Riley <em>Fortnightly Review</em></p><p><br></p><p><br></p>