Song of Lilith by Andrew Chiniche

Fiercely retelling the oldest chapter of Christian mythology, Andrew Chiniche has created an evocative and poetic epic with his newest work, Song of Lilith.

Representing the sinful, lustful, self-aware, rebellious, and untamed nature of humankind, specifically womankind, Lilith and her ilk have long been cloaked in biblical shadows and mystical rumors. Beginning with her deflowering by Adam in the Garden of Eden, finding refuge in the arms of Samael the archangel, and her legendary manipulation of Eve’s appetite, this is a biblical story few have ever heard. However, Chiniche’s portrait goes much further, with Lilith existing in different forms and eras, and even being saved by Yeshua, whom she followed, worshipped, and served.

An empowering piece of literature, this work of verse reframes the historical record, celebrating the dauntless power of feminine energy and eroticism, without being shamed into submission. The language is lush and lyrical, well-chosen for the tone and mood of a biblical epic, though there are numerous pieces that read like prose forced into poetic form, rather than smooth narrative verse. There are also scattered misspellings or misused words (e.g., “pour” vs “pore”), but these slips are infrequent and minor.

Reworking some of the most well-known stories in human history is a bold project, and Chiniche fearlessly shines a light on an overshadowed figure with sensual candor, delivering a thought-provoking portrait of raw femininity.