O do not Leave Me
The work explores themes of love, loss, and the longing for connection. It presents a poignant plea from a speaker who yearns for the presence of loved ones, expressing a deep fear of abandonment. The speaker's emotional state oscillates between vulnerability and a desire for solace, as they seek comfort in the company of a mother, lover, and friends. The imagery evokes a sense of peace that comes from being surrounded by love, suggesting that such connections are vital for emotional well-being. As the narrative unfolds, the speaker grapples with the inevitability of separation, contemplating the nature of existence and the divine. The longing for unity with God is emphasized, highlighting a spiritual dimension to the desire for companionship. The work culminates in a profound realization that true connection transcends physical presence, suggesting that love endures beyond mortality. The interplay between earthly relationships and spiritual aspirations creates a rich tapestry of emotion, ultimately conveying a message about the enduring power of love and the hope for eternal unity.
By George MacDonald · First published 1870 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Philosophical · 144 words
First lines
O do not leave me, mother, lest I weep; Till I forget, be near me in that chair. The mother's presence leads her down to sleep -- Leaves her contented there.
O do not leave me, lover, brother, friends, Till I am dead, and resting in my place. Love-compassed thus, the girl in peace ascends, And leaves a raptured face.
Leave me not, God, until -- nay, until when? Not till I have with thee one heart, one mind; Not till the Life is Light in me, and then Leaving is left behind.
What this Textopian page supports
O do not Leave Me 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, Philosophical, Romantic, Family
- Length: 144 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th 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 text includes themes of divine presence and spiritual unity, common in religious literature.
- Philosophical — The text explores existential themes such as life, death, and the nature of divine connection.
- Romantic — The text addresses themes of love and companionship, typical of romantic literature.
Tags
love · loss · faith · redemption · sacrifice · grief · hope · spirituality · forgiveness · relationships · suffering · devotion