A Mother's Birthday (Songs of Hearth and Altar)
The story revolves around a mother who is struggling to come to terms with her own mortality and the passing of time. Her children are grown and have moved away, leaving her feeling isolated and alone. As she approaches her birthday, the mother reflects on her life and the sacrifices she has made for her family. She feels a sense of emptiness and disconnection from the world around her. The narrative explores themes of love, loss, and the complexities of motherhood. The mother's relationships with her children are strained, and she struggles to connect with them on a deeper level. Throughout the story, the mother grapples with feelings of regret and longing for a past that cannot be recaptured. Her birthday serves as a catalyst for introspection and self-discovery, forcing her to confront the reality of her own mortality. Ultimately, the story presents a nuanced portrayal of motherhood, highlighting the complexities and challenges that come with it.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1907 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational · 242 words
First lines
Lord Jesus, Thou hast known A mother's love and tender care: And Thou wilt hear, While for my own Mother most dear I make this birthday prayer.
Protect her life, I pray, Who gave the gift of life to me; And may she know, From day to day, The deepening glow Of joy that comes from Thee.
As once upon her breast Fearless and well content I lay, So let her heart, On Thee at rest, Feel fear depart And trouble fade away.
Ah, hold her by the hand, As once her hand held mine; And though she may Not understand Life's winding way, Lead her in peace divine.
What this Textopian page supports
A Mother's Birthday (Songs of Hearth and Altar) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1907 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Henry Van Dyke
- Date: 1907 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational, Family, Devotional
- Length: 242 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Similar titles
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- A Prayer For A Mothers Birthday Lyrics by Henry Van Dyke
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- My Boy by James Whitcomb Riley
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The text includes direct references to Jesus and prayer, indicating a religious theme.
- Inspirational — The themes of love, gratitude, and divine guidance provide an uplifting and motivational tone.
- Family — The central focus on a mother's love and care highlights familial relationships.
Tags
Poetry · Family · Motherhood · Birthday · Nostalgia · Sentimental · Domesticity · Home · Love · Affection · Childhood · Memory