Caedmon

In der Washington Post befaßt sich Edward Hirsch mit dem ersten namentlich bekannten Dichter in englischer Sprache, einem Analphabeten aus dem 7. Jahrhundert, Caedmon , Auszug:

Here is a literal translation of the inspired poem called „Caedmon’s Hymn.“ The odd spacing is from the original.

Now must we to praise of heaven’s kingdom the Keeper

Of the Lord the power and his Wisdom

The work of the Glory-Father, as he of marvels each,

The eternal Lord, the beginning established.

He first created of earth for the sons

Heaven as a roof, the holy Creator.

Then the middle-enclosure of mankind the Protector

The eternal Lord, thereafter made

For men, earth the Lord almighty.

Washington Post 31.3.02