Susie Leiper, In the Beginning
Oil on vellum on wood
Culture
Columba was in the middle of copying a psalm from the Bible. He set down his quill. He was old and others would have to finish it. The time had come for his final journey.
He was mourned by many. Even the Pagan poets and storytellers of Ireland praised him – remembering that when King Áed wanted to banish them, Columba had defended them. That love of culture and knowledge was also found in Iona’s library, with works from across the known world.
Later, Columban monks illustrated exquisite copies of the gospels, such as the Book of Kells. Intricately carved stone crosses rose from the ground. Literacy and learning spread across Scotland, Ireland and the north of England. Columba’s own poems and hymns were sung in praise of the Creator.
And, a century later, Abbot Adomnán wrote one of the earliest works of literature in Scotland: The Life of Columba
Learning enriches us, art inspires us, culture broadens the mind
and deepens the heart. Stories shape and guide our lives.What helps you to live well?
What are your travels through life teaching you?