M'Andrew's Hymn by Rudyard Kipling
The poem presents the reflections of an engineer aboard a steamship, M'Andrew, who contemplates his life, work, and relationship with God while on watch during a voyage. He begins by acknowledging the divine presence in the machinery he operates, attributing the precision and power of steam engines to God's design. M'Andrew recalls his long career at sea, filled with both pride and regret, as he grapples with memories of past sins and temptations encountered during his travels. He reflects on the nature of man versus machine, questioning the spiritual implications of his work and the lives of the passengers he carries. M'Andrew expresses a sense of duty and responsibility for the safety of those aboard, recognizing that their lives depend on his expertise. He recounts moments of personal struggle, including temptations and moral failures, while also acknowledging the grace that has guided him through challenges. The engineer's thoughts shift to the technical aspects of his job, revealing a deep appreciation for the mechanics of steam power and the teamwork required to operate the ship. He contrasts the romanticized view of sea travel with the harsh realities of engineering, emphasizing the importance of discipline and obedience in his work. As he prepares to dock, M'Andrew reflects on the lack of recognition he receives compared to the passengers and crew, yet he finds fulfillment in his role. He concludes with gratitude for the opportunity to serve and a commitment to continue striving for excellence in his craft, all while maintaining a humble acknowledgment of divine oversight in his life and work.
By Rudyard Kipling · First published 1895 · Genre: Poetry, Religious, Literary Fiction · 3,392 words
First lines
Lord, Thou hast made this world below the shadow of a dream, An', taught by time, I tak' it so -- exceptin' always Steam. From coupler-flange to spindle-guide I see Thy Hand, O God -- Predestination in the stride o' yon connectin'-rod. John Calvin might ha' forged the same -- enorrmous, certain, slow -- Ay, wrought it in the furnace-flame -- _my_ "Institutio". I cannot get my sleep to-night; old bones are hard to please; I'll stand the middle watch up here -- alone wi' God an' these My engines, after ninety days o' race an' rack an' strain Through all the seas of all Thy world, slam-bangin' home again. Slam-bang too much -- they knock a wee -- the crosshead-gibs are loose; But thirty thousand mile o' sea has gied them fair excuse. Fine, clear an' dark -- a full-draught breeze, wi' Ushant out o' sight, An' Ferguson relievin' Hay. Old girl, ye'll walk to-night! His wife's at Plymouth. Seventy -- One -- Two -- Three since he began -- Three turns for Mistress Ferguson. . .and who's to blame the man? There's none at any port for me, by drivin' fast or slow, Since Elsie Campbell went to Thee, Lord, thirty years ago. (The year the _Sarah Sands_ was burned. Oh roads we used to tread, Fra' Maryhill to Pollokshaws -- fra' Govan to Parkhead! ) Not but they're ceevil on the Board. Ye'll hear Sir Kenneth say: "Good-morrn, M'Andrew! Back again? An' how's your bilge to-day? " Miscallin' technicalities but handin' me my chair To drink Madeira wi' three Earls -- the auld Fleet Engineer, That started as a boiler-whelp -- when steam and he were low.
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M'Andrew's Hymn is listed on Textopian as a poem by Rudyard Kipling, dated 1895 CE.
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- Work type: Poem
- Author: Rudyard Kipling
- Date: 1895 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Religious, Literary Fiction, Historical Fiction, Philosophical
- Length: 3,392 words
- Structure: 1 section, 9 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is written in verse, employing rhythm and rhyme, characteristic of poetry.
- Religious — The poem explores themes of faith, divine providence, and personal sin, reflecting a deep engagement with religious concepts.
- Literary Fiction — The narrative delves into the complexities of human experience, particularly the life of a marine engineer, blending personal reflection with broader themes.
- Historical Fiction — The setting and references to maritime technology and culture situate the poem within a specific historical context.
Tags
faith · hymn · sea · sailor · spirituality · work · labor · devotion · nature · life · struggle · identity