'This small book contains three cycles of poems written while travelling in England, Italy and Jerusalem. They explore the inner journey through the outer one..., and are imbued with the poet's awareness of the life and values of St Francis of Assisi.'
Source: Untitled review, Studio : A Journal of Christians Writing 60 (1995): 36.
'A Pilgrim’s Poetry written by N Jeffs, a brother of the Society of St Francis (SSF) was written from his experience and the listening ears of many friends from 1990 to 1993 at Hilfield Friary in Dorset in England, Assisi in Rome and at St George’s College in Jerusalem. The main idea of the book seems to be the main theme and cuts across the 3 cycles – A deep reflection on Franciscan spirituality as lived by one whose desire is to mature in it.
The Hilfield Cycle
The Hilfield experience is a spiritual journey that sought the strength to deepen one’s understanding of God and creation from what is being witnessed daily. Thus, the experience lived in Hilfield is narrated with reference to the bible to paint a picture of satisfaction, despondency, and hope. The flip side of the picture is how the writer is dealing with sexuality and its modern meaning in relation to the bible.
The Assisi Cycle
This experience relates more to a contextualisation of the writer’s spirituality as he lives it in Italy (epitome of civilisation) and visiting certain landmarks to affirm knowledge and understanding. The painted picture is a story that draws strength and inspiration from history despite limited resources. The meditation and prayer life of the writer is evident in this cycle as a narrative of hunger and thirst for more righteous living.
Author of this review: The Rev. Dr Michael Twum Darko
