LOVELL – The Sanskrit word “mandala” basically means a circle. Psychologists, starting with Karl Jung, use the word to refer to circular images that are drawn, painted or even danced. Metaphorically, these images have to do with harmony and totality.

When Timothy Richardson decided to write an epic poem that spanned an entire life, “mandala” was the first and only title that occurred to him. Later, Lincoln evolved as the perfect character to represent the concept.

“Mandala” is composed of 38 episodes covering Abraham Lincoln’s 56 years from birth to death and the poem is 534 pages. Richardson has worked on it for the last six years, but it kept him occupied with preparatory work for 20 years before that.

The poet will give a presentation on Lincoln with selections from his epic from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 26, at the Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library.

Richardson’s poem traces the key incidents in Lincoln’s psychic life that molded and brought him to a position of leadership at the country’s darkest hour and led to the successful conclusion of the Civil War.

Everyone is welcome, and refreshments will be served.

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