When the Grail Psalms were first translated in the 1950s and early 1960s, the desire to retain strict rhythmic patterns similar to those found in their original Hebrew setting was a primary principle for the translators. In attempting to adhere to these rhythmic patterns, they would often abbreviate or paraphrase a text in preference to a more literal translation. By doing so, some instances of the rich biblical imagery of the Psalter were lost. Furthermore, in later decades, significant progress was made in the understanding of Hebrew rhetoric and how to incorporate the Hebraic style in English translation. Finally, there also arose a desire to return to a more elevated sacred language, in contrast to the informal and colloquial approach of the 1950s and 1960s.
Although my primary interest on this site is metrical psalmody, it must be admitted that the problems with the 1963 Grail Psalter apply in large measure to metrical psalms as well. This is not an argument against their use, but I do wonder whether Reformed churches ought not to consider ways of singing the psalms that do not necessitate altering, and in some cases abbreviating, the texts.
Hi David. I have been working on 'seeing' the Psalter. Now I have started on 'hearing'. The libretto is very large - several grand operas worth of words. My work is experimental at this stage and while the English is not metrical, the music has scope for rhythmic variation and a language of leit-motifs following the voice and structure of the texts. Sheet music and a reading are here. This slightly wobbly performance won't win any prizes.
ReplyDeleteThis is great, Bob. I wish you the best in this. Please keep me up to date with this project. Thanks.
ReplyDelete