Psalms

Psalms is divided into three main parts to provide an accessible and comprehensive analysis of the Psalms.

The first examines the nature of the Psalms as a text in English, dealing specifically with the problem of translation and various aspects of the 'techniques' of reading, with relation to traditional approaches within Biblical studies and contemporary literary theory.

The arguments are illustrated in relation to Psalm 29, in particular, and a programmatic approach to reading, involving seven 'aspects' is set out.

The second part of the book takes up this programmatic approach and applies it in depth to a selection of individual psalms, the 'Psalms of Ascents' and uses them as a case study to explore poetic structure, liturgical purpose, and overall literary coherence.