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The Poetry of Pope John Paul II Roman Triptych Meditations

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This poetic work shows the soul of the pope in a great artistic way. Most do not realise that prior to and during his time as a priest in Poland, the man who was to become Pope John Paul II was in fact a writer and thespian of some skill. Near the end of his eventful life, he undertook to write some poetry that would capture his theology, his sense of life, and his hope for the future.

This is a very short book, a mere 40 pages of text, but the words are moving and meaningful. The pope writes in a style that is vivid and descriptive; he uses settings from his childhood and time in Poland, biblical images, as well as things he has seen as pope to fill the verse with pictures that the reader can also enjoy and participate in seeing.

Beyond the descriptive elements, the pope incorporates his own pastoral and theological sense, turning his reflections both outward to the world, as well as reflexively back upon his own experiences, in some ways drawing his pontificate to a close in verse, fastening on to the idea that none of us starts in a vacuum, and our influence, with God's help, remains strong and secure into the future.

A grand offering from a remarkable man, this small poetic offering gives insight into the soul of the man, the priest, the pope, the world figure, that no theological treatise or journalistic interview could ever do.

If you want to know why so many gathered and cheered at his funeral, just read this book.

I received this as a gift a couple of days after our beloved Pope passed away after his long battle with Parkinsons Disease.
It's as though I can feel his heart when I read this. It's very special.

Yes, it is a slim volume of poetry. And yes, poetry is not usually at the top-of-the-charts in popularity. But this was no ordinary poet. This was Our Great Holy Father, John Paul II. And while some said he could have done more for the faithful, in my opinion he did everything possible - if you truly believe in God's will. And most respectfully, this was (again, in my opinion only) John Paul II's only way of conveying the dire times in which we live and prophesying as well via the poetry genre - always subject to differing interpretations. One can feel his heart on every single word of each poem. Thank goodness we live in a country that offers us the most precious Freedom of Speech & Press - so that all we need do is "click" and purchase such a treasure for a song.

Bear in mind that this book is a TRANSLATION into English. A translation is never exactly the same as the original.

. . . showing the deep thoughts of one of the spiritual giants of our time.

Both poetry and spiritual meditation, this book is a gift of love to the world from Pope John Paul II (The Great) as he contemplated the approaching end of his long life. The reader will want to take time with this volume; it is not designed for "speed-reading". Rather, it is to be savored slowly and prayerfully.

A powerful book from a mystical perspective. I can't speak highly enough about it.

Our Holy Father is indeed a gifted poet. This should be required reading for all Catholics. And suggested reading for everyone else!

This last work of poetry by John Paul II offers one of the deepest meditations on the meaning of life yet placed in words. Not only is it a compilation of reflections by the Holy Pontiff himself while taking in the timeless works of Michael Angelo found on the walls of the Sistine Chapel, it is a set of reflections that any reader will identify with.

This is a booklet for those interested in the deep perspectives of The Religious Man of our time, Pope John Paul II. He loved the nickname "JP-II" which was given him by the youth of this age, was avid thinker with an uncanny but simple way of expressing himself. In this volume he proves to be a challange as he shows us how deep, warm and self examining he could be. This volume requires thought and induces introspection by the reader. Read a side of "JP-II" you knew was there, but have not readily observed, heard or seen. Learn something about yourself and this beloved Catholic Man of Faith. Look for that warm and devilish smile of his as you study him.

The book was really amazing, I think any religious person,or anyone interested in becoming a christian should consider reviewing it.