4/6/2021Philip Pullman's introduction to Paradise Lost - The British Library 1/16Philip Pullman's introduction toParadise Lost Discovering Literature: Restoration & 18th century Article written by:Philip Pullman Themes:Gender and sexuality[/restoration-18th-century-literature/themes/gender-and- sexuality],Politics and religion[/restoration-18th-century-literature/themes/politics-and-religion] Philip Pullman first readParadise Lostas a schoolboy and was dazzled by the sound of its poetry as he and his classmates read it aloud. Since then, he has become fascinated by Milton's tremendous powers of storytelling, and the ways in which he creates narrative tension, complex moods and vivid characters. A correspondent once told me a story – which I've never been able to trace, and I don't know whether it's true – about a bibulous, semi-literate, ageing country squire 200 years ago or more, sitting by his fireside listening toParadise Lost[/works/paradise-lost]being read aloud. He's never read it himself; he doesn't know the story at all; but as he sits there, perhaps with a pint of port at his side and with a gouty foot propped up on a stool, he finds himself transfixed. Suddenly he bangs the arm of his chair, and exclaims ‘By God! I know not what the outcome may be, but this Lucifer is a damned fine fellow, and I hope he may win!’ Which are my sentiments exactly. First illustrated edition ofParadise Lost, 1688 By using this site, you agree we can set and use cookies.OK For more details of these cookies and how to disable them,see our cookie policy [].
