The 1001 Arabian Nights is perhaps the most famous story collection in the world. It has transcended cultures; languages; and historical eras to become familiar and beloved not only in the Eastern world; but also in the West; where it is the only acknowledged classic of Western literature to have originated from outside the West itself. Despite its prominent place in both Eastern and Western culture; the history of the Nights remains tantalizingly elusive and difficult to define. In Eastern Dreams; author Paul Nurse discusses not only the history of this book; but also the many fascinating people; who become characters themselves; responsible for bringing the Nights to the West and the wider world; and how the Nights has influenced; and continues to influence; global culture.
#154406 in Books Westminster John Knox Press 2000-06-01 2000-06-01Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x .98 x 6.00l; 1.45 #File Name: 0664256708432 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Book ReviewBy Rebecca H. MitchellExcellent book. Really lots of good information. This is a real keeper.. Helps me with choir;church. Thanks so much.Good day.14 of 15 people found the following review helpful. Useful in proposing a particular viewBy M. J. SmithBrian Wren is an exponent of a particular approach to congregational hymns is firmly rooted in his Reformed background and related understanding of the function of religious services. This underlies his concern regarding inclusive language; multicultural usage; social justice issues etc. From this viewpoint he intelligently discusses the role of hymns in worship; appropriate language including revision of old hymns; selection and performance of hymns ... While my understanding of worship; historical continuity etc. differs from Wren's; this volume is an interesting and articulate expression of a particular point of view - a view important for the understanding of contemporary mainline Protestant hymnody.7 of 7 people found the following review helpful. Praying Twice: The Music and Words of Congregational SongBy Barbara Elizabeth HammBrian Wren accomplishes something that is difficult to do in one volume: both a broad survey of the history of congregational song and an in-depth discussion of the issues involved. Wren is thoroughly knowledgeable of both. One may agree or disagree with his conclusions at many points; but both his conclusions and the reasons for them are made quite clear. This book is the first that got me to thinking about praise music as something that I am really going to have to come to terms with as a church musician. He says the music is engaging and that what we need are church musicians to write lyrics that go beyond the inadequate ones of many of the current popular praise choruses. The book will both enlighten and stimulate one's thinking.
