If I were a Monk, and Thou Wert a Nun
The story follows a young man named Paul who falls in love with a nun named Margaret. They are both members of a religious order and must keep their relationship secret. As they struggle to maintain their vows while also pursuing their feelings for each other, they face numerous obstacles and challenges. Ultimately, the novel explores themes of faith, love, and sacrifice in a unique and thought-provoking way.
By George MacDonald · First published 1870 · Genre: Poetry, Romance, Religious · 639 words
First lines
If I were a monk, and thou wert a nun, Pacing it wearily, wearily, Twixt chapel and cell till day were done -- Wearily, wearily -- How would it fare with these hearts of ours That need the sunshine, and smiles, and flowers?
To prayer, to prayer, at the matins' call, Morning foul or fair! -- Such prayer as from weary lips might fall -- Words, but hardly prayer -- The chapel's roof, like the law in stone, Caging the lark that up had flown!
What this Textopian page supports
If I were a Monk, and Thou Wert a Nun 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, Romance, Religious, Philosophical, Historical
- Length: 639 words
- Structure: 1 section, 11 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for If I were a Monk, and Thou Wert a Nun by George MacDonald
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering If I were a Monk, and Thou Wert a Nun?
- 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
- Worship by Frederic Manning
- Loves Trappist by G. K. Chesterton
- A Meditation Of St Eligius by George Macdonald
- Song Sermon by George Macdonald
- O Lord I Nothing Crave But Thee From The Tartar by George Borrow
- A Sang O Zion by George Macdonald
Genres
- Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Romance — The theme revolves around love and longing, exploring the emotional connection between two individuals.
- Religious — The setting and context involve monastic life, prayer, and religious imagery, reflecting spiritual themes.
- Philosophical — The work contemplates existential themes such as the nature of happiness, fulfillment, and the human condition.
Tags
spirituality · religion · monasticism · faith · love · devotion · philosophy · mysticism · Christianity · self-discovery · meditation · inner peace