Visions of Valhalla : A Poetic Tribute to Richard Wagner
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Richard Wagner referred to himself repeatedly as a poet rather than as a composer and would surely have been delighted to find himself the subject of a volume of poetry. John Davidsons poems evince a deep love and knowledge of Wagner and his works: avoiding both hagiography and sentimentality, he makes the reader think about the subject in new ways the mark of a true poet. This volume will doubtless appeal to committed Wagnerians but deserves to find an audience beyond them too. ~ Barry Millington
These poems make a marvellous read: singly, a few at a time, or in one read-through. Of all the writers on things Wagnerian, poets have tended the most towards flowery, reverent adulation. But not John Davidson. His poems impressions and soliloquies as much as poems are honest, witty, and very contemporary. Yet all through the collection, a leitmotif of homage can be heard. In the end, Wagner (and the poet) stand revealed through a uniquely satisfying music of words. ~ Heath Lees.
Featured in the 5 September 2016New Zealand Newsletter.
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