George Lansing Taylor

Elijah the Reformer, a Ballad Epic, and Other Sacred and Religious Poems George Lansing Taylor

Composer George Lansing Taylor's epic ballad-biography of the Prophet Elijah, and his finest poetic verse narrating events of the Old Testament, are presented here complete.

A superb collection of religious songs and hymns, this book communicates the drama and gravity of the Biblical events narrated. The character of Elijah and others is eloquently depicted in a fast flowing poetic narration that holds its subjects in due reverence, their sacred station respected and honored by the lyrics.

Throughout the book we receive notes on the Biblical passages concerned, with the Book of Kings, Judges and Revelation alluded to. Taylor, as much a Biblical scholar as a talented lyricist, is keen to emphasize the accuracy of his verse. Annotations include insights as to Elijah's origins, including the indications from sources that he was born to a non-Hebrew tribe.

After the principle text, we are treated to a variety of Taylor's other works. Events such as the conflicts with Egypt depicted in Exodus, to the migrations of the Jewish peoples to the lands of Canaan, are dramatized in verse. With the stories succinctly expressed in poems, the reader may better memorize and follow the Biblical canon, and gain respect for the poet's understanding of the Lord God.

The author spent his life professionally composing hymns and songs for a variety of Christian groups in the United States. Educated in Columbia College, he worked as a Methodist minister and published multiple books of poetry. Though much of his work is now obscure, Taylor's talents remain clear and evident to the interested reader.