The Ballad of St. Barbara and Other Verses


Read by LibriVox Volunteers

(4.3 stars; 6 reviews)

The Ballad of St. Barbara is a collection of 35 poems by G. K. Chesterton, showcasing his unique blend of wit, imagination, and deep philosophical inquiry. Written in 1922, this work reflects on themes of faith, sacrifice, and the human experience through the lens of one of Christianity's most intriguing saints.

Chesterton's poetry often combines a playful tone with profound insights, inviting readers to explore the complexities of belief and morality. In this collection, he delves into the life of St. Barbara, a figure emblematic of courage and conviction, while also touching on broader subjects that resonate with the struggles of the modern world.

With its rich imagery and thoughtful reflections, The Ballad of St. Barbara stands out as a testament to Chesterton's literary prowess and his ability to weave together the sacred and the everyday. This audiobook offers a chance to experience the beauty of his verse, making it a valuable addition to any poetry lover's collection.

Chapters

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01 - To F.C. in Memoriam Palestine, '19 1:52 Read by matty_castaway
02 - The Ballad of St. Barbara 8:21 Read by anjieliu
03 - Elegy in a Country Churchyard 0:52 Read by leah23
04 - The Sword of Surprise 1:24 Read by Tracie
05 - A Wedding in War-time 4:20 Read by Justin Brett
06 - The Mystery 0:52 Read by Elli
07 - "The Myth of Arthur" 1:25 Read by Amy Gramour
08 - The Old Song 3:05 Read by Amanda Potter
09 - The Trinkets 1:15 Read by bish
10 - The Philanthropist 1:32 Read by David Lawrence
11 - On the Downs 3:10 Read by Gayle Cato
12 - The Red Sea 1:49 Read by Kenny B
13 - For a War Memorial 1:04 Read by Elizabeth Wilcox
14 - Memory 1:08 Read by Elli
15 - The English Graves 1:45 Read by Malane
16 - Nightmare 2:40 Read by bish
17 - A Second Childhood 2:37 Read by Gayle Cato
18 - "Mediaevalism" 3:10 Read by Justin Brett
19 - Poland 1:46 Read by LizMourant
20 - The Hunting of the Dragon 2:43 Read by Justin Brett
21 - Sonnet 1:23 Read by Kenny B
22 - Fantasia 1:47 Read by LizMourant
23 - A Christmas Carol 1:19 Read by Penelope Greenwell
24 - To Captain Fryatt 1:27 Read by Winston Tharp
25 - For Four Guilds: The Glass-Stainers 1:22 Read by bish
26 - For Four Guilds: The Bridge Builders 1:56 Read by bish
27 - For Four Guilds: The Stone-Masons 2:00 Read by bish
28 - For Four Guilds: The Bell-Ringers 2:43 Read by bish
29 - The Convert 1:30 Read by a LibriVox Volunteer
30 - Songs of Education: History 2:59 Read by Algy Pug
31 - Songs of Education: Geography 2:40 Read by Algy Pug
32 - Songs of Education: For the Creche 2:00 Read by Algy Pug
33 - Songs of Education: Citizenship 2:04 Read by Algy Pug
34 - Songs of Education: The Higher Mathematics 1:58 Read by Algy Pug
35 - Songs of Education: Hygiene 2:12 Read by Algy Pug

Reviews


(4 stars)

Great poems, good readers for the most part. A couple were difficult to understand due to foreign accents, and a couple were read in a stiff or stilted manner, but overall this was a nice collection.