The Death of Saul and other Eisteddfod Prize Poems and Miscellaneous Verses

"The Death of Saul and other Eisteddfod Prize Poems and Miscellaneous Verses" by J. C. Manning is a collection of poetry written in the late 19th century. The primary focus of the book is the poem "The Death of Saul," which explores the tragic story of King Saul from the Bible, emphasizing themes of pride, disobedience, and the consequences of forsaking divine guidance. Alongside this prize-winning poem, the collection includes various other verses reflecting on a wide range of subjects. At the start of this volume, Manning discusses the constraints imposed by the Eisteddfod Committee regarding the length of his poem "The Death of Saul." He expresses a humorous defiance against such restrictions and seems to opine on the nature of artistic expression, preferring to present the full version instead. The opening portion establishes the context of his writing, revealing his background as a journalist and his ongoing affinity for poetry, which he sees as a means of rejuvenation amidst the demands of his profession. The preface and initial poems reflect on the emotional landscape of both personal loss and societal themes, setting the tone for the reflections that follow in the rest of the collection.