Agnes at Prayer by Dinah Mulock
A young girl named Agnes engages in prayer, reciting the familiar words with innocence and simplicity. Despite her youth and limited understanding, her heartfelt supplication reflects a deep yearning for connection and protection. The narrative juxtaposes her spiritual plea with the presence of her earthly father, whose gentle demeanor and loving guidance shape her perception of safety and affection. The poem explores themes of innocence, the bond between a child and a parent, and the broader implications of fatherhood, particularly for those who lack such a figure in their lives. Agnes's prayer serves as a poignant reminder of the comfort found in familial love and the universal longing for divine care. The work emphasizes the contrast between the security of a nurturing father and the vulnerability of those without parental support, inviting reflection on the nature of love, faith, and the human experience. Through Agnes's simple yet profound words, the piece captures the essence of childhood faith and the enduring impact of parental figures, while also extending compassion to the fatherless. The narrative ultimately highlights the importance of both earthly and heavenly guardianship in a child's life.
By Dinah Mulock · First published 1854 · Genre: Religious Fiction, Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction · 205 words
First lines
"OUR Father which art in heaven," Little Agnes prays, Though her kneeling is but show, Though she is too young to know All, or half she says. God will hear her, Agnes mild, God will love the innocent child.
"Our Father which art in heaven. " She has a father here, Does she think of his kind eyes, Tones that ne'er in anger rise -- "Yes, dear," or "No, dear. " They will haunt her whole life long Like a sweet pathetic song.
"Our Father which art in heaven," Through thy peaceful prayer, Think of the known father's face, Of his bosom, happy place; Safely sheltered there; And so blessed -- long may He bless! Think too of the fatherless.
What this Textopian page supports
Agnes at Prayer is listed on Textopian as a short story by Dinah Mulock, dated 1854 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: Dinah Mulock
- Date: 1854 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Fiction, Historical Fiction, Women's Fiction
- Length: 205 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Agnes at Prayer by Dinah Mulock
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Genres
- Religious Fiction — The title indicates the book features a character engaged in religious practices, suggesting a spiritual or religious fiction genre.
- Historical Fiction — The author, Dinah Mulock, is known for writings set in past eras, suggesting a historical fiction genre.
- Women's Fiction — The title character is a woman, potentially pointing towards themes concerning the female experience and suggesting a women's fiction genre.
Tags
prayer · faith · spirituality · childhood · innocence · religion · morality · family · growth · self-discovery · community · love