A Charm by Rudyard Kipling (1911)
The work presents a series of invocations and instructions that blend elements of nature, spirituality, and healing. It begins with a call to take a handful of English earth, emphasizing the importance of honoring those who have passed, particularly the common people whose lives often go unnoticed. This act of gathering earth is imbued with a prayerful significance, suggesting that it can bring about physical and spiritual healing. The text continues by describing the transformative power of the earth, asserting that it can alleviate ailments of the body and soul. The speaker claims that this connection to the land can restore balance and clarity, allowing one to confront the struggles of existence. The imagery evokes a deep relationship with the natural world, where the earth serves as a source of strength and renewal. Next, the work shifts focus to the collection of various English flowers, each representing different seasons. The flowers are not merely decorative; they are portrayed as potent remedies that can enhance vision and perception. The speaker encourages the reader to seek these flowers throughout the year, suggesting that their proper use can lead to enlightenment and a deeper understanding of one's surroundings. The flowers are described in vivid detail, each associated with specific qualities and times of the year. The primrose symbolizes spring's renewal, the rose embodies summer's vitality, the wallflower represents autumn's transition, and the ivy bloom signifies winter's resilience. Together, they form a holistic approach to healing and insight. The culmination of the work emphasizes the idea that through these natural elements, one can uncover hidden treasures in familiar places and recognize the inherent nobility within every individual. The message is one of empowerment, suggesting that everyone possesses a royal essence that can be revealed through connection to the earth and its gifts. Overall, the work serves as a meditation on the interplay between nature, healing, and self-discovery, advocating for a reverent and mindful approach to the world around us. It invites readers to engage with their environment, acknowledging the profound impact it can have on their well-being and understanding of life.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Spiritual, Nature Writing · 295 words
First lines
Take of English earth as much As either hand may rightly clutch. In the taking of it breathe Prayer for all who lie beneath. Not the great nor well-bespoke, But the mere uncounted folk Of whose life and death is none Report or lamentation. Lay that earth upon thy heart, And thy sickness shall depart!
It shall sweeten and make whole Fevered breath and festered soul. It shall mightily restrain Over-busy hand and brain. It shall ease thy mortal strife 'Gainst the immortal woe of life, Till thyself restored shall prove By what grace the Heavens do move.
What this Textopian page supports
A Charm is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1911 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1911 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Spiritual, Nature Writing, Philosophical, Inspirational
- Length: 295 words
- Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse and employs poetic devices, focusing on themes of nature and healing.
- Spiritual — The poem explores themes of prayer, healing, and the connection between the earth and the human spirit.
- Nature Writing — The text emphasizes the importance of natural elements, such as earth and flowers, in the healing process.
- Philosophical — The poem reflects on life, death, and the human condition, prompting deeper contemplation.
Tags
Rudyard Kipling · poetry · nature · healing · earth · flowers · spirituality · English culture · life and death · restoration · simplicity · prayer