Book Review: Studies in the Psalms by Ernst R. Wendland
Renowned scholar Ernst R. Wendland has recently published a groundbreaking book on poetic discourse analysis in Hebrew poetry. In this meticulously researched work, Wendland presents a method for higher-level poetic discourse analysis and offers techniques for improving the translation of Hebrew poetry into different languages. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in Psalms research and Bible translation.
Wendland’s method for analyzing poetic discourses consists of ten steps, including delimitation, spatialization, text criticism, segmentation, confirmation, distinction, contextualization, conversation, summarization, and translation and testing. One of the key aspects of his method is spatialization, where he visualizes the text on a grid to identify syntactical, morphological, and phonological patterns. Through segmentation, confirmation, and distinction, Wendland clarifies the continuity and discontinuity of text within the poem, highlighting thematic progression and macrostructural prominence.
One of the strengths of Wendland’s work is its comprehensive and up-to-date nature. His analyses are detailed and thorough, drawing on the latest scholarship in the field. Wendland also emphasizes the importance of fidelity to the oral-aural aspects of the text, ensuring that translations capture the poetic beauty and rhythm of the original Hebrew.
While Wendland’s work is highly commendable, there are areas that could be improved, such as the somewhat laborious read due to the detailed analyses and loose connections between chapters. Despite these minor drawbacks, Wendland’s book is a valuable resource for anyone studying Hebrew poetry and involved in the translation of the Psalms.
Overall, Wendland’s book is a tour de force in the field of poetic discourse analysis, offering valuable insights and methodologies for scholars and translators alike. It is a must-read for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Hebrew poetry and improve their translation skills.