
Throne and Altar is a collection of sonnets by Helen Hay Whitney, published in 1891. The sonnets explore themes of faith, love, and mortality, and are written in a variety of styles, from traditional Petrarchan to modern free verse. The collection begins with a sonnet about the power of faith, and continues with poems about the beauty of nature, the joys of love, and the sorrows of death. Whitney's sonnets are often lyrical and romantic, but also contain a deep spiritual element. She writes of the power of prayer, the comfort of faith, and the hope of eternal life. The collection ends with a sonnet about the power of love, and a final poem about the joy of living in the present moment. Whitney's sonnets are a beautiful and timeless exploration of the human experience.
By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1898 · Genre: Poetry, Romanticism, Feminism · 171 words
He had a vision of a golden throne Fronting an altar; both alike were bare, But o'er the purple of the regal chair Blazed the device, "I wait for him alone Who with the world has held his soul his own." He sadly turned, this height he could not dare.
But -- Stay -- the text upon the altar there -- "I wait for him who has not made a moan Howe'er his kind have used his heaven-sent dower.
Fear not, and burn thine incense, lowly heart." And sudden brightness turns the averted face, To holy sense of majesty and power -- And a voice:"Master -- this indeed thou art." Wondrous music trembles thro' the space.
Some Verses: Sonnets: THRONE AND ALTAR is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1898 CE.
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American poetry · alike · alone · altar · bare · blazed · br · chair · could · dare · device · er