The Monk in his Garden

Name: The Monk in his Garden
Author: Helen Hay Whitney

This memoir recounts the author's experiences living with a monk who has retired from his monastic duties to tend a garden. The narrative explores themes of spirituality, solitude, and the human condition through the monk's interactions with nature and the world around him.

By Helen Hay Whitney · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Mystical · 155 words

First lines

The air is heavy with a mist of spice, Vervain and agrimony, clove and rue, Have I not paid, have I not paid the price? How shall these tempters torture me anew?

I close my eyes and dream the incense drifts Over the monstrance, and the acolyte Swings the gold censer. Then the vision lifts: I know the poisonous joys I have to fight.

Day with its flowers and yellow butterflies, Holds for my heart no pain, the wind is free That blows upon my garden from far skies, Yet may I hold it in white chastity.

But night! -- and the still air! -- Ah, God above, Have I the strength to wage thy war anew? Blot out my senses or I die for love, -- Vervain and agrimony, clove and rue!

What this Textopian page supports

The Monk in his Garden is listed on Textopian as a poem by Helen Hay Whitney, dated 1940 CE.

This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.

Work type: Poem
Author: Helen Hay Whitney
Date: 1940 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religious, Mystical, Philosophical, Nature
Length: 155 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)

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Genres

Poetry — The text is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and imagery, characteristic of poetry.
Religious — Themes of spiritual struggle and religious imagery, such as references to incense and acolytes, are prominent.
Mystical — The text explores mystical experiences and inner spiritual battles, common in mystical literature.
Philosophical — The work delves into existential questions and the nature of temptation and virtue.