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John Kemp's Wager: A Ballad Opera
Paperback
ISBN13: 9781025756875
Publisher: Tradd Street Press
Published: Feb 14 2026
Pages: 96
Weight: 0.32
Height: 0.20 Width: 6.14 Depth: 9.21
Language: English
John Kemp's Wager, a Ballad Opera is a lyrical and engaging theatrical work by the renowned poet and author Robert Graves. Drawing upon the rich traditions of English folklore and the unique structure of the ballad opera, Graves presents a narrative that seamlessly interweaves spoken dialogue with rhythmic, song-like verse. The story centers on the protagonist, John Kemp, and the consequences of a bold wager, set against a backdrop that evokes the pastoral charm and social dynamics of rural England.
As a significant example of Graves's versatile literary output, this work demonstrates his mastery of meter and his profound interest in the oral traditions of the British Isles. The play functions both as a dramatic script and a collection of evocative poetry, reflecting the author's ability to elevate traditional forms into sophisticated literary art. John Kemp's Wager, a Ballad Opera offers readers a glimpse into the creative evolution of one of the twentieth century's most significant men of letters. It remains a compelling piece for those interested in the revival of folk motifs in modern drama and the enduring power of the ballad as a storytelling device.
This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact, and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore, you may see the original copyright references, library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world), and other notations in the work.
This work is in the public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.
As a reproduction of a historical artifact, this work may contain missing or blurred pages, poor pictures, errant marks, etc. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.
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