Christmas-Day, 1878

Name: Christmas-Day, 1878
Author: George MacDonald

The narrative explores the themes of weariness and renewal associated with the annual celebration of Christmas. The speaker reflects on the repetitive nature of the holiday, expressing a sense of fatigue with its sameness over the years. Despite this weariness, there is a yearning for a deeper connection with the divine. The speaker seeks the presence of the Lord, emphasizing the desire for spiritual rebirth and renewal that transcends the mundane cycle of life. The text contrasts the eternal nature of the divine with the temporal experience of humanity, highlighting the longing for a transformative encounter with the sacred. The speaker's plea for the Lord to dwell within them suggests a quest for meaning and rejuvenation, particularly on a day that symbolizes hope and joy. Ultimately, the work encapsulates the struggle between the monotony of existence and the aspiration for spiritual awakening, underscoring the importance of faith in overcoming life's weariness. The imagery of being "new-born" signifies a desire for continual renewal, reinforcing the notion that true celebration lies in the ongoing relationship with the divine rather than in the mere observance of tradition.

By George MacDonald · First published 1878 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 211 words

First lines

I think I might be weary of this day That comes inevitably every year, The same when I was young and strong and gay, The same when I am old and growing sere -- I should grow weary of it every year But that thou comest to me every day.

I shall grow weary if thou every day But come to me, Lord of eternal life; I shall grow weary thus to watch and pray, For ever out of labour into strife; Take everlasting house with me, my life, And I shall be new-born this Christmas-day.

Thou art the Eternal Son, and born no day, But ever he the Father, thou the Son; I am his child, but being born alway -- How long, O Lord, how long till it be done?

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Christmas-Day, 1878 is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1878 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: George MacDonald
Date: 1878 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical, Inspirational
Length: 211 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form, with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
Religious — The themes revolve around spiritual reflection, prayer, and a relationship with the divine, typical of religious literature.
Philosophical — The work contemplates existential themes such as eternal life and the passage of time, aligning with philosophical inquiry.
Inspirational — The text aims to inspire renewal and spiritual awakening, common in inspirational writings.