The Chant of the Cross-Bearing Child
This poem explores themes of suffering and redemption through the image of a child bearing a cross. The speaker describes the child's innocence and purity, yet also notes their willingness to bear the weight of the cross, symbolizing the burden of sin. The poem suggests that even in childhood, one can be aware of the weight of responsibility and the need for sacrifice.
By James Whitcomb Riley · First published 1879 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational · 498 words
First lines
I bear dis cross dis many a mile.
O de cross-bearin' chile -- De cross-bearin' chile!
What this Textopian page supports
The Chant of the Cross-Bearing Child is listed on Textopian as a poem by James Whitcomb Riley, dated 1879 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: James Whitcomb Riley
- Date: 1879 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational, Folklore, Historical
- Length: 498 words
- Structure: 1 section, 13 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Similar titles
- St Andrew by James Mcintyre
- St Laurence by Joyce Kilmer
- A Hymb Of Faith by James Whitcomb Riley
- The Crucifixion by John Greenleaf Whittier
- The Times by Ella Wheeler Wilcox
- The Dying Christian by Frances Ellen Watkins Harper
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a rhythmic and lyrical quality, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around spiritual struggle, faith, and divine guidance, common in religious literature.
- Inspirational — The narrative conveys a message of perseverance and hope, aiming to inspire readers.
- Folklore — The use of dialect and cultural references suggests an influence of folk traditions.
Tags
Poetry · Christianity · Symbolism · Imagery · Metaphor · Allegory · Spirituality · Faith · Redemption · Sacrifice · Cross · Biblical