This narrative represents a radical departure from the personal or confessional lyric which is still the predominant form within contemporary poetry. Supported by a grant from the European Association for Jewish Culture, the poem was written to commemorate the unofficial resettlement of the Jews in mid-seventeenth century England. Historical research, returning to primary sources, revealed a temporary alliance between Oliver Cromwell and the Dutch rabbi, Menasseh ben Israel. The poem works through this relationship to explore issues of exile, clandestine cultural identity, and collusive economic convenience, all from a secular and contemporary viewpoint. The poem also represents a very self-conscious tribute to the passionate ratiocination of 17th-century English poetry. In performance, this poem deployed music by John Hingeston in a cultural crossover of poetry and music. It has been performed in a number of venues and music festivals. RAE_import_type : Authored book RAE_uoa_type : English Language and Literature