Coming by George MacDonald (1870)
"Coming" is a novel by George MacDonald that tells the story of a young man named Coming who embarks on a journey to find his true identity and purpose in life. Along the way, he encounters various characters who help him discover important truths about himself and the world around him. The book explores themes such as self-discovery, spiritual growth, and the power of love and forgiveness.
By George MacDonald · First published 1870 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Nature · 147 words
First lines
When the snow is on the earth Birds and waters cease their mirth; When the sunlight is prevailing Even the night-winds drop their wailing.
On the earth when deep snows lie Still the sun is in the sky, And when most we miss his fire He is ever drawing nigher.
In the darkest winter day Thou, God, art not far away; When the nights grow colder, drearer, Father, thou art coming nearer!
For thee coming I would watch With my hand upon the latch -- Of the door, I mean, that faces Out upon the eternal spaces!
What this Textopian page supports
Coming is listed on Textopian as a poem by George MacDonald, dated 1870 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George MacDonald
- Date: 1870 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Nature, Inspirational
- Length: 147 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Coming by George MacDonald
- 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
- What should a reader notice first when entering Coming?
- How does this poem by George MacDonald fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Poetry first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around divine presence and spiritual reflection, common in religious literature.
- Nature — The imagery and references to natural elements like snow, sun, and night-winds suggest a focus on nature.
- Inspirational — The text conveys a hopeful and uplifting message about divine proximity and comfort.
Tags
fantasy · allegory · spirituality · redemption · self-discovery · moral lessons · imagination · childhood · adventure · faith · love · transformation