Description
Poetry. Middle Eastern Studies. THE TIN MAN is a moving homage to a little known but charismatic figure in the Christian biblical narratives, Saint Joseph of Arimathea. Completed after six years of research and writing, THE TIN MAN is based on a myriad of primary and secondary source materials including canonical texts, apocrypha, religious traditions, church history, medieval literature, and folklore. THE TIN MAN is a grand narrative poem in epic style regarding the key intersections of Joseph of Arimathea's life both with Pontius Pilate, Roman Governor of Palestine and with the strange and charismatic Jesus of Nazareth. The poem explores the experiences of a dramatically flawed man and the transmutation of his inner being in the presence of the Numinous. In the final analysis, THE TIN MAN explores the life-changes that transform an arrogant and troubled expatriate into a Christian saint, missionary, evangelist, and church leader.
"The figure of Joseph of Arimathea has always been dear to English hearts because of the age-old tradition, linked not only with Cornwall but also with Glastonbury, that he traveled here himself...Anyone reading this work will feel a great debt of gratitude to David Austell...The writing is full of music and it is music that leads us to the amazing figure of 'The Tin Man' so that we journey with him through history as pilgrims."—from the Introduction by the Very Reverend Dr. Robert A. Willis, Dean of Canterbury Cathedral, England
"Very compelling...an immense work...the poems are lit with primary passion, which is everything, of course."—Christian Wiman, Poet and Senior Lecturer in Religion and Literature, Yale Divinity School
"THE TIN MAN is an elegant wrestle with history and meaning."—Eliza Griswold
"THE TIN MAN is a meticulously researched and masterfully written account of Joseph of Arimathea. David Austell weaves prose and poetry, history and imagination, humor and gravity into an exquisite, seamless story that is both fascinating and a pleasure to read. David's craft of poetry and prose here is exquisite."—Sholeh Wolpe
Author Bio
David B. Austell is a distinguished American poet and educationist.
Author City: USA