There is much to admire in John Milton's Paradise Lost. Beyond the epic tale of fallen angels and sinful human beings, there exists a remarkable degree of insight into the emotions stirred by the competing forces that impact our lives. Paradise Lost: A Poetic Journey uses modern language to continue on that path, to reveal the moments of bliss, anxiety, empathy, deceit, and other emotions that permeate Milton's work while helping us to reflect on our own Christian values.
Paradise Lost: A Poetic Journey is written for both adult and young adult Christians, as well as for non-Christians who are curious about the biblical story of creation. The great variety of classical poetic structures utilized to tell the story will appeal to those interested in the multinational origins of formal poetry.
Paul Buchheit is an author of books, poems, progressive essays, and scientific journal articles. His book of poetry, Sonnets of Love and Joy, was published in 2023. His historical novel, 1871: Rivers on Fire, was self-published in 2021. His most recent nonfiction book was Disposable Americans, published in 2017. His website is https://booksbypaulb.com.
“Paradise Lost: A Poetic Journey is a poetic retelling of salvation history through the lens of John Milton’s Paradise Lost. The exquisite poetry takes the reader from the depths of sin and hell to the glory of redemption when God will wipe every tear from our eyes (Rev 21:4).”
—Matthew Eyerman, pastor, Blessed Maria Gabriella Church
“John Milton’s epic biblical poem Paradise Lost finds a new fresh voice in Paul Buchheit’s version, eloquently articulating both the poetic form and compelling story of Milton’s classic work. This is a great find for anyone who would love to enjoy this epic poem, unencumbered by the need to continually reference footnotes for definitions of the more archaic vocabulary, classical and mythological inferences.”
—Nicholas Zook, pastor, Concordia Church
“This book stands as a condensed alternative to Milton’s mighty Paradise Lost. If you are a commoner (not a theologian, philosopher, poet, playwright, etc.) who wants to familiarize yourself with/enjoy this classic, this is just the right version to read! It will treat you to some fine poetry and allow you to enjoy the complete story without missing any important detail. So, without any hesitation, I recommend you read it!”
—Raju Chacko, Reedsy
“Paradise Lost: A Poetic Journey easily manages to bend its genre in an even more remarkable way, and its poetic entries will easily resonate with readers from all walks of life and ages. The skillfully delivered dialogues and the wily changes in tone laud the key message that the poet seeks to deliver, and that rings true throughout. Through these complex and wonderful poems, God’s unyielding love for humankind shines, and Milton’s previous work that these poems are based upon receives much justice.”
—Lily Andrews, Feathered Quill
“Those who like horror-themed poetry and fiction will appreciate this book. Additionally, those who are intrigued by the philosophical elements of the original Paradise Lost and similar works will likely enjoy the journey this book offers.”
—Nicole Yurcaba, The US Review of Books