11 of 11 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Not in MY strength!, November 15, 2002
Magonus Succatus Patricius was a well-born Roman citizen, a baptized Christian, and a celibate priest of the Roman Church. Because he is sincere in his commitment to Christ, he has reluctantly resigned himself to return to the land of his former captivity. He could not deny the incessant demand of the messenger of Christ to return to Eire. But he was determined not to like it. Among other symbols of this reluctant duty is his refusal to acknowledge his Hibernian name, Padraig (Patrick).
One of the themes in Osborne-Knight's complex tapestry is the slow realization by the protagonist that he is indeed "of Irelunde". Osian, poet-son of the great Finian leader Fionn Mac Cumhail, is sent by God to tell the ancient stories of Eire, and so aide in the transition from Succatus to Padraig. Osian is the representative of ancient Eire. The Eire which is passing away, to make room for the "One who comes", the Lord Christ. The book concludes with a spirited conversation between the dying Osian, and Patrick. "I will tell them that I have been with Magonus Succatus Patricius, druid of the White Christ". "Nay, tell them not that". "Then where shall I tell them I have been?" Tell them that you have been with...Padraig!".
Osborne-Knight paints an Ireland that has been waiting for generations for the arrival of the "Three-in-One". Patrick is sent to deliver the message of the "light at the center of all", not because he is courageous, strong, educated, or charming. He is none of these as he tells the Victorianus. The messenger angel then assures Padraig that his courage and skill is not the issue. God's strength, God's wisdom, and Christ's utter attractiveness is determinative. In this sense, the story is quite theocentric. This is emphasized further by the narration of Padraig's triumph at Tara, the great hall of the high king of Eire. In circumstance of mortal danger, Padraig prays for Christ to shield him and his brother Christians. In response, he is given the great Hymn still known as "St. Patrick's Breastplate". Singing this powerful poem, Padraig and the brothers are preserved and given a great victory where it was least looked for. The scene brought wonder to my heart, especially since our church has recently learned the modern version of the hymn.
I read this book as a committed Christian, an adherent of the reformed faith. I am somewhat skeptical of the implied universality of the Christian message. However, I am not SURE that such a message is actually there. I give the story 5 stars for the depth (both of character and of plot) and for the ripping good tale that it is.
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11 of 12 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Enchanting! I couldn't put it down..., June 20, 2000
By A Customer
If you are at all interested the history of Ireland or the life of Saint Patrick, you will love this book! The author takes the few facts that are actually known about St. Patrick and the Irish legend Finn Mac Cool and from them weaves a lyrical, engaging story. The characters of Patrick and Osian are completely believable and the stories they tell are inspiring and meaningful. The book revisits all the old Irish mythology (like the story of Dhiarmaid & Grainne) and makes it very human and believable. It then adds the struggle of St. Patrick to understand the natives of Ireland and teach them about his God. The stories tie together perfectly, and the book resonates with meaning. I had tears in my eyes at the end of this novel. It's an incredible read.
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7 of 7 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Heroes, Passion, Humanity, Tragedy, Love ---IRELAND!---, January 30, 2002
This review is from: I Am of Irelaunde: A Novel of Patrick and Osian (Paperback)
Reading this book is time well spent. Osborne-Knight's Patrick is a conflicted soul searching to rise and become the man he desired to be. Her Osian comes to Patrick not knowing the purpose of his visit, but perceptive of Patrick's need of his wisdom. Patrick is reserved, angry and unsure of his own talents, yet compelled to fulfill his destiny. Osian is a warm-hearted, warrior of Ireland's past dedicated to teaching an unwilling pupil how to become the man that he was destined to be. Despite their many differences, these two characters bring one another to an understanding about themselves and their place in Ireland. Although I thoroughly enjoyed the entire book, I must confess that Osian's storytelling, compelled me to read this book in one day. I found myself to be like the Brothers at the monastery, hanging on the words of Osian, never ready for them to end.
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