Grass of Parnassus

"Grass of Parnassus" by Andrew Lang is a collection of poetry published in the late 19th century. This volume presents a mixture of original verses, translations, and adaptations of classical themes, reflecting on love, nature, and the human experience. The title refers to the flower that symbolizes literary and artistic inspiration, suggesting the book shares a connection to the Muses and the realm of creativity. The collection includes a variety of poems ranging from reflections on war and heroism to personal musings on love and loss. Lang draws inspiration from historical events, such as the death of Colonel Gordon, alongside more abstract themes of longing and nostalgia. Characters like Rhodocleia serve as muses lamenting for bygone times, while scenes featuring nature evoke a sense of tranquil beauty. Each piece is crafted with a lyrical quality that invites readers to explore complex emotions and the interplay between the mortal and divine, art and reality. Overall, the book serves as a heartfelt tribute to the poetic tradition and the eternal quest for beauty and meaning. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Andrew Lang was a Scottish poet, novelist, literary critic, and contributor to the field of anthropology. He is best known as a collector of folk and fairy tales. The Andrew Lang lectures at the University of St Andrews are named after him.