A Literary Bible

Praise

Praise for David Rosenberg

“Part of Rosenberg’s task was to produce a style of translation that might fairly represent a rocky magnificence . . . as if it belonged to a distinct individual . . . and on his own terms Rosenberg makes it work. Yet he expressly does not want his characters to speak a plain, familiar modern English like, for instance, that of the New English Bible . . . He is looking for modern readings, free of the muddles introduced into the understanding of these works by academics and religious commentators of all descriptions, and recognizable as living speech. He must somehow be modern as well as faithful to the past, reproducing where necessary the ancient, strange, “uncanny” vigor of J, the primary author . . . and to bear in mind ‘American poetry’s struggle with natural speech.’ On the whole it succeeds, and Rosenberg emerges with honor from his long wrestling match with an opponent who goes by the name of J.”
—Frank Kermode, New York Times Book Review (Jan. 3, 2010)

“Rosenberg’s new translation is as provocative and personal as ever . . . deeply poetic.”
—Library Journal (starred review)

“A truly fresh reading of seminal scriptural texts.”
—Booklist

Praise for The Book of J

“A great book . . . Rosenberg has produced a superb piece of translation.” —Village Voice Literary Supplement

“Rosenberg’s innovative translation . . . re–creates a tone of modulated ironic grandeur.” —New Yorker

“David Rosenberg has given a fresh interpretative translation.” —Washington Post Book World

“Surpassing originality.” —New York Times

Praise for A Poet’s Bible

“Rosenberg’s translations from the Hebrew Bible are the best in the twentieth century without a doubt.” —The Nation