The Acrostic Paradise Lost

Terrance Lindall · John Milton

Jan 2020 · Yuko Nii Foundation

About this ebook

Acrostics in Milton’s poem have fascinated scholars, and I thought I might like to write another synopsized version of Paradise Lost in acrostic form that actually tells the story briefly. The idea was suggested by John Geraghty, a prominent collector of Milton books, art and ephemera. I am just beginning the project that I hope I can present it during National Poetry Month next year. I will also present two first edition illustrated books of William Blake, plus many other remarkable illustrated books. I do attempt things with Paradise Lost never done before. One was synopsizing it and then popularizing it in Heavy Metal Magazine. The synopsized book was on display in B. Dalton’s store window on 5th Avenue in mid- Manhattan and sold out. Another was the Gold Folio, and another was the Gold Scroll that reads like a Torah scroll (p.65). Then there was the Paradise Lost Costume ball in 2008 that got a major article in the New York Times. All were successful. We also have a major collection of Paradise Lost related materials, including first illustrated editions, an Elkington Shield that won a world fair award, etc. These will be on display when I produce the show related to the acrostic.

About the author

Lindall has worked in comic books, including Warren Publishing's Creepy, Eerie and Vampirella.[1] According to The Independent, he has also done illustrations for Marvel Comics.[5] His illustrations of John Milton, some of which were originally published in Heavy Metal, have been featured in textbooks and modern printings of Milton's work as well as Lindall's rendition of Paradise Lost in prose.[1] One of his illustrations is featured on the Oxford University website created to support its 400th anniversary celebration of Milton.[6]

Terrance Lindall has worked with Yuko Nii in developing the Williamsburg Art & Historical Center.[7] The Williamsburt Art & Historical Center was the site of a 2008 celebration in honor of Milton's 400th birthday, the Grand Paradise Lost Costume Ball; this event, which featured some of Lindall's illustrations of Milton, gained international attention.[1][5]

Lindall is also an author and editor. In addition to his prose synopsis of Milton's Paradise Lost, his publication include a collection of short stories, Blue-eyed Satori: And Other Stories, and an article in Time Out New York.[8]