Paul Griffiths\x27 previous novel Mr. Beethoven was shortlisted for the\nGoldsmiths Prize 2020, longlisted for the Walter Scott Prize 2021 and\nlonglisted for the Republic of Consciousness Prize 2021.Two conversations oscillate around Bernhard Strigel\x27s paintings of Christ\x27s\ngrave guards. Two contemporary voices debate the power of the imagination\nto unlock historical truth, while the tomb guardians themselves realise the\nChrist has gone while they slept.