On a Child Kneeling
On a Child Kneeling is a poem written by Fanny J. Crosby, an American blind poet and hymn writer. The poem describes the scene of a child kneeling in prayer, with their eyes closed and hands clasped together. The child's posture conveys a sense of humility and reverence, as if they are speaking directly to God. The poem is written in quatrains (four-line stanzas) with a consistent rhyme scheme of ABAB. The language used is simple and straightforward, yet evocative of deep emotion and spirituality. Crosby's use of imagery and symbolism creates a powerful visual representation of the child's prayer, making it accessible to readers of all ages and backgrounds. In short, On a Child Kneeling is a beautiful and moving poem that explores themes of faith, devotion, and spirituality through its vivid imagery and simple language.
By Fanny J. Crosby · First published 1880 · Genre: Religious, Poetry, Children's Literature · 175 words
First lines
His little hands were meekly clasped, And to that cheek so fair, A ringlet carelessly had strayed, And lightly lingered there,
Beneath those silken lids that dropped, Were eyes serenely bright; An infant kneels, and angels gaze With rapture at the sight.
Well may they strike their golden harps, And swell their songs of praise; An infant kneels in artless strains Its feeble voice to raise.
Oh, what a lesson! if a child So innocent must kneel, Should not our sinful time-seared hearts A deep contrition feel?
What this Textopian page supports
On a Child Kneeling is listed on Textopian as a poem by Fanny J. Crosby, dated 1880 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Fanny J. Crosby
- Date: 1880 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Poetry, Children's Literature, Inspirational
- Length: 175 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for On a Child Kneeling by Fanny J. Crosby
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
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Discussion starters
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- How does this poem by Fanny J. Crosby fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
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Similar titles
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- To A Friend by Fanny J. Crosby
- The World Is Full Of Kindness by Henry Lawson
- Night And Morning by Fanny J. Crosby
- Hope On Hope Ever by Fanny J. Crosby
- A Tribute by Fanny J. Crosby
Genres
- Religious — Fanny J. Crosby was known for her work as a hymnist and poet of the Christian faith, which informs the tone and content of this work.
- Poetry — Crosby is recognized for her poetic style and has written many poems over her lifetime, making this genre a likely fit.
- Children's Literature — The book's title suggests a central focus on a child, indicating its suitability for young readers.
- Inspirational — Crosby’s writing often aimed to inspire and uplift, which aligns with this genre.
Tags
religious poetry · Christian devotional · children's literature · kids poems · prayer · worship · spiritual growth · faith · inspiration · hope · joy · gratitude