The Batsford Book of Religious Verse
Author/Editor: Elizabeth Jennings
Publisher: Batsford
Edition & Year: First Edition, 1981
Binding: Hardcover
Pages: 92
Size: 6 in × 9 in
The Batsford Book of Religious Verse is a thoughtfully curated anthology edited by Elizabeth Jennings, one of Britain’s most respected poets known for her lyrical clarity and spiritual sensitivity. Published in 1981 by Batsford, this 92-page hardcover first edition offers a compact yet deeply enriching collection of poetry centered on themes of faith, devotion, and the human relationship with the divine.
The anthology brings together a diverse selection of poems drawn from different periods and traditions, reflecting the enduring presence of spirituality in literature. Jennings carefully selects works that explore a wide emotional and philosophical range—from quiet contemplation and personal prayer to expressions of doubt, longing, and transcendence.
The poems included in this volume are notable for their lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and reflective tone. They invite readers to engage with fundamental questions about existence, belief, and inner peace, making the book both a literary and spiritual experience. The collection is accessible to a wide audience, whether one approaches it from a religious, philosophical, or purely literary perspective.
Jennings’ editorial approach emphasizes clarity and sincerity, avoiding overly complex or obscure selections in favor of poems that resonate with authenticity and emotional truth. This makes the anthology particularly appealing for readers seeking meaningful and meditative reading rather than purely academic study.
The 6 × 9 inch hardcover format provides a clean and elegant presentation, suitable for both personal reading and gifting. Its compact size and carefully chosen content make it ideal for quiet reflection, daily reading, or as a companion volume for those interested in spiritual literature.
Despite its modest length, The Batsford Book of Religious Verse offers a rich and enduring experience, capturing the timeless connection between poetry and spirituality. It stands as a valuable addition to collections of religious literature, poetry anthologies, and reflective works.
- Editor: Elizabeth Jennings – acclaimed poet with strong spiritual themes
- Publisher: Batsford, First Edition (1981)
- Format: Hardcover, 92 pages
- Genre: Poetry / Religious & Spiritual / Anthology
- Content: Curated selection of devotional and reflective poems
- Themes: Faith, contemplation, doubt, transcendence, inner peace
- Style: Lyrical, accessible, emotionally resonant
- Use: Suitable for reflection, study, and personal reading
- Size: 6 × 9 inches – elegant and reader-friendly format
- Collector Appeal: First-edition literary anthology with spiritual depth
🔹 Collector’s Note
This 1981 first-edition hardcover of The Batsford Book of Religious Verse is a refined and meaningful collection that reflects the enduring relationship between poetry and spirituality. Its thoughtful curation and literary quality make it a desirable addition for collectors of poetry, religious literature, and classic anthologies.


















Reviews
There are no reviews yet