Synopses & Reviews
As a poet and storyteller, Olaf Lagercrantz approaches the works of Swedish scientist-turned-seer with the eyes of an artist, exploring the complex philosophy of one of Sweden's most famous sons with curiosity and open wonder. Lagercrantz examines Swedenborg's life, his experiences in heaven and hell, and writings about faith, the nature of the universe, and human relationships as works of literature, casting a new light on Swedenborg's ideas that often differs from the usual theological interpretations.
Synopsis
Olof Lagercrantz, one of Sweden's most illustrious writers, approaches Swedenborg's works on the spiritual realm as an epic poem about an unknown country, a utopia on the other side of the tomb, a vision of a great and worthy life. This is a work of praise from one writer to another.
Synopsis
One of Sweden's most illustrious writers approaches the works of Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) on the spiritual realm as an epic poem.
About the Author
Olof Lagercrantz, Sweden's greatest living journalist and cultural figure, descends from one of Sweden's old noble families. Born in Stockholm in 1911, he became famous as a poet in the 1930s and 40s; received his Ph.D. in the History of Literature at Stockholm University in 1951, and was editor-in-chief of the largest Swedish Daily, Dagens Nyheter, from 1960-75. He has published a series of books on great authors-Dante, Proust, Joyce, Orwell, Conrad and Strindberg-two of which have been published in English: August Strindberg (Farrar, Strauss, Giroux, 1984) and From Hell to Paradise: Dante and His Comedy (Washington Square Press, 1966)