This Gloomy Northern Day

Name: This Gloomy Northern Day
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson

The poem reflects a deep sense of longing and introspection during a bleak northern day or night. The speaker expresses a desire for connection with a higher power, invoking prayer as a means to address the struggles faced by humanity. The initial plea is for sustenance, emphasizing the need for bread to alleviate hunger in a suffering community. This call for basic needs highlights the stark realities of life in a harsh environment. The speaker then shifts focus to hope, seeking strength and encouragement for the youth who are striving for success. This hope is portrayed as a powerful force that can inspire hard work and reward, suggesting that perseverance is essential in overcoming adversity. Finally, the poem culminates in a prayer for resilience and joy, advocating for a spirit that remains buoyant despite life's challenges. The speaker emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, suggesting that a heart filled with song and humor can provide warmth and comfort against the coldness of existence. The concluding thoughts reinforce the idea that inner strength and joy can transform even the most difficult circumstances into something bearable, elevating the mundane to the extraordinary.

By Robert Louis Stevenson · First published 1885 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational · 287 words

First lines

THIS gloomy northern day, Or this yet gloomier night, Has moved a something high In my cold heart; and I, That do not often pray, Would pray to-night.

And first on Thee I call For bread, O God of might! Enough of bread for all,- That through the famished town Cold hunger may lie down With none to-night.

I pray for hope no less, Strong-sinewed hope, O Lord, That to the struggling young May preach with brazen tongue Stout Labour, high success, And bright reward.

And last, O Lord, I pray For hearts resigned and bold To trudge the dusty way- Hearts stored with song and joke And warmer than a cloak Against the cold.

What this Textopian page supports

This Gloomy Northern Day is listed on Textopian as a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson, dated 1885 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Date: 1885 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Religious, Inspirational, Literary Fiction, Social Commentary
Length: 287 words
Structure: 1 section, 7 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Poetry — The work is structured in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of hope, prayer, and resilience.
Religious — The poem expresses a direct appeal to God, reflecting spiritual themes and the act of prayer.
Inspirational — The content encourages hope and perseverance in the face of adversity, aiming to uplift the reader.
Literary Fiction — The work explores deep emotional and philosophical themes, characteristic of literary fiction.