Reflections on the Closing Year
Reflections on the Closing Year by Fanny J. Crosby is a work that explores the themes of reflection, introspection, and spirituality. The poem is structured into four stanzas, each one focusing on a different aspect of the closing year. In the first stanza, Crosby reflects on the passing of time and the fleeting nature of life, using imagery such as "the sunset of the year" to convey the idea that time is limited and precious. In the second stanza, she turns her attention to the joys and sorrows of the past year, acknowledging both the happy moments and the difficult times with a sense of acceptance and gratitude. The third stanza is more introspective, as Crosby reflects on her own spiritual journey and the role that faith has played in her life. She expresses a sense of humility and dependence on God, acknowledging that she is "but a vessel" for His work. Finally, in the fourth stanza, Crosby looks to the future with hope and anticipation, declaring that "the year ahead" will be filled with new opportunities for growth and service. Throughout the poem, Crosby's use of imagery and metaphor adds depth and richness to her reflections, creating a sense of contemplative introspection that invites the reader to reflect on their own life and spiritual journey.
By Fanny J. Crosby · First published 1896 · Genre: Religious, Inspirational, Poetry · 194 words
First lines
'Twill soon be gone-the wailing night wind drear Chants her sad requiem to the closing year: 'Twill soon be gone-the brilliant starry night In silent eloquence repeats the strain.
'Twill soon be gone-the placid queen of night O'er its departure sheds her mellow light. Oh, time, what art thou? who thy course may stay? Not ours the past nor future, but today.
Hark! hark! the distant peal of yonder bell, In measured tones the midnight hour doth tell. Old year, thy reign is past; we bid adieu To thee, and usher in the new.
I'll to my couch, and dream the hours away, 'Till fair Aurora opes the gates of day: But ere I go, dear friends, on you I call: "A happy new year" is my wish to all.
What this Textopian page supports
Reflections on the Closing Year is listed on Textopian as a poem by Fanny J. Crosby, dated 1896 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: 1896 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Inspirational, Poetry
- Length: 194 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
- An Address by Fanny J. Crosby
- To A Friend by Fanny J. Crosby
- Hope On Hope Ever by Fanny J. Crosby
- Holy Thursday by Alice Meynell
- Night And Morning by Fanny J. Crosby
- A Birthday Tribute by Fanny J. Crosby
Genres
- Religious — Fanny J. Crosby's works are predominantly religious, encompassing hymns and devotionals.
- Inspirational — Reflection on the passing year typically involves introspection, lessons learned and hope for the future, aligning with the inspirational genre.
- Poetry — Not only is Crosby's writing style poetic, the reflection on time is a common theme in poetry.
Tags
Christian · religious · spiritual · inspirational · devotional · poetry · reflection · personal growth · self-help · motivation · encouragement · hope