A Red Rose in the Dark

“In this stimulating work, Lemberger both exemplifies and explicates Wittgenstein's dictum: ‘Whereof one cannot speak, thereof one must be silent.’ Through the work of poets, who constitute their poetic self in the presence of the Divine, Lemberger demonstrates Wittgenstein's Language Game notion. According to Lemberger, Zelda, Amichai, Kosman, and Adaf—each in their own cultural context—display four distinct modes of self-constitution and a unique Language Game. Thus, Lemberger provides a vigorous analysis of Wittgenstein's thought along with an impressive picture of the trends in Modern Hebrew poetry.” -- Tamar Sovran, Chair, Rosenberg School of Jewish Studies, Tel Aviv University
“Lemberger offers a theoretically rich yet highly accessible study of Zelda, Amichai, Adaf and Kossman. Readers will be treated to a fascinating perspective on poetry, and how it intersects with religion, Jewish tradition, and the formation of identity. Using Wittgenstein’s theory, Lemberger opens up a new path for exploration of the richness of the works studied. In her original treatment of the changing of self-religious view, she presents a new emphasis on the poets’ reconstitution of self through the prism of religious belief. Amichai’s poetic persona stands out in particular by juxtaposing his final book with all his former books. Lemberger demonstrates the dynamics of Amichai’s relation to God and Jewish symbols in the earlier stages of his life, comparing them with his late years, unveiling his reversion. Most impressive is Lemberger’s insightful close reading that enables expert readers and students alike to be excited and moved by these beautifully interpreted poems.” -- Adina A. Ofek, Jewish Theological Seminary of America (Emeritus) and Editor, Hebrew Higher Education