The Man to the Angel
The Man to the Angel is a poem written by George William Russell that explores the relationship between humanity and divinity. The speaker in the poem addresses an angel, asking for guidance on how to live a meaningful life. Throughout the poem, the speaker grapples with questions of faith, purpose, and mortality. Ultimately, the poem suggests that true fulfillment can only be found through a connection with something greater than oneself.
By George William Russell · First published 1923 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 215 words
First lines
I have wept a million tears: Pure and proud one, where are thine, What the gain though all thy years In unbroken beauty shine?
All your beauty cannot win Truth we learn in pain and sighs: You can never enter in To the circle of the wise.
They are but the slaves of light Who have never known the gloom, And between the dark and bright Willed in freedom their own doom.
Think not in your pureness there, That our pain but follows sin: There are fires for those who dare Seek the throne of might to win.
What this Textopian page supports
The Man to the Angel is listed on Textopian as a poem by George William Russell, dated 1923 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: George William Russell
- Date: 1923 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Symbolism, Mysticism
- Length: 215 words
- Structure: 1 section, 6 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- Day by George William Russell
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Philosophical — The themes explore deep philosophical questions about truth, wisdom, and the nature of suffering.
- Spiritual — The text delves into spiritual concepts, referencing purity, the divine, and existential struggles.
- Symbolism — The use of symbolic language and imagery, such as light and darkness, conveys deeper meanings beyond the literal text.
Tags
spirituality · mysticism · philosophy · Irish literature · poetry · symbolism · nature · self-discovery · transcendence · dreams · imagination · inner journey