Christmas Eve by Robert Graves
The poem presents a vivid and imaginative scene on Christmas Eve, where animals in a stable are anthropomorphized, expressing joy and celebration at the birth of Christ. The ox and ass, symbols of humility and labor, rejoice, believing that humanity has been redeemed from sin. Their jubilant dance reflects a simple faith in the miraculous event. However, the tone shifts as the poem delves into darker themes. The initial celebration is juxtaposed with the notion of a "second Fall" and the resurgence of human conflict and moral decay. The imagery of wars, injustice, and societal strife highlights the ongoing struggles faced by humanity, suggesting that despite the promise of salvation, the world remains plagued by violence and ignorance. The animals, initially depicted as joyous, are urged to refrain from speaking, as their voices might only echo the failings of mankind. The poem critiques human nature, emphasizing that the true message of Christmas is overshadowed by the persistent flaws and vices of society. The final lines call for a recognition of this grief, suggesting that the animals' silent suffering serves as a poignant reminder of humanity's shortcomings. Overall, the work contrasts the hope of redemption with the harsh realities of human existence, using the Christmas narrative as a backdrop to explore themes of innocence, conflict, and the moral responsibilities of mankind.
By Robert Graves · First published 1960 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Allegory · 205 words
First lines
On Christmas Eve the brute Creation Lift up their heads and speak with human voices; The Ox roars out his song of jubilation And the Ass rejoices.
They dance for mirth in simple credence That man from devildom this day was saved, That of his froward spirit he has found riddance; They hymn the Son of David.
Ox and Ass cloistered in stable, Break bounds to-night and see what shall astound you, A second Fall, a second death of Abel, Wars renewed around you.
Cabals of great men against small men, Mobs, murders, informations, the packed jury, While Ignorance, the lubber prince of all men, Glowers with old-time fury.
What this Textopian page supports
Christmas Eve is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Graves, dated 1960 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Robert Graves
- Date: 1960 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Allegory, Social Commentary, Fantasy
- Length: 205 words
- Structure: 1 section, 5 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Standard (8th-9th Grade)
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Similar titles
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and imagery typical of poetry.
- Religious — The themes revolve around Christmas and the celebration of the birth of Christ, reflecting religious significance.
- Allegory — The poem uses animals to symbolize broader human conditions and moral lessons.
- Social Commentary — It critiques societal issues such as class struggle and ignorance.
Tags
Christmas · Eve · Robert Graves · poetry · creation · jubilation · ox · ass · stable · redemption · humanity · symbolism