Vartovbogen 1985

The Vartov Book 1985. Kirkeligt Samfunds Forlag, Copenhagen 1985.Reviewed by Viggo MortensenTwo features of this edition are given prominence in the review: the strong interest in narrative history, and in Grundtvig’s revisions of Kingo’s hymns from the 17th century. Alongside recollections of a German POW camp mention is made of a new version of Princess Leonora Christina’s “Memories of Woe” from the 17th century. Without a historical context modern man finds himself in a large, empty room. On the other hand Professor Svend Holm-Nielsen’s retelling of the patriarch, Jacob’s, story shows that the historicalcritical angle, far from destroying the story, actually enhances it. The article on Grundtvig and Kingo makes it clear that Grundtvig’s deep desire to renew the hymns for singing overrode any regard for the individual poet’s personal interest or copyright. “It is not an unreserved pleasure to be near Grundtvig, when he is passionate, ” says Rev. Jens Lyster.