The Virgin's Cradle-Hymn

Name: The Virgin's Cradle-Hymn
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The poem presents a tender and intimate scene between a mother and her child, focusing on the themes of maternal love and the innocence of childhood. It begins with a lullaby, where the mother encourages her baby to sleep, expressing her joy in watching him rest. The mother’s smile signifies her deep affection and the comfort she derives from her child's peacefulness. As the poem progresses, the mother’s emotions shift; if the child does not sleep, she experiences sorrow. This duality of joy and sorrow highlights the deep connection between mother and child, emphasizing the protective and nurturing instincts of motherhood. The act of singing while working at her wheel symbolizes the intertwining of daily life and the sacredness of motherhood. The imagery evokes a serene domestic setting, where the mother’s labor is infused with love and care. The repetition of the plea for the child to sleep reinforces the urgency and depth of her desire for his tranquility. The poem captures the essence of maternal devotion, portraying the mother as both a caregiver and a source of comfort. Overall, the work reflects on the profound bond between mother and child, illustrating how love manifests in simple yet powerful ways. The lullaby serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of life, encapsulating the universal experience of motherhood.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1796 · Genre: Religious Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Romanticism · 129 words

First lines

COPIED FROM A PRINT OF THE VIRGIN IN A CATHOLIC VILLAGE IN GERMANY

Dormi, Jesu! Mater ridet / Que tarn dulcem somnum videt, / Dormi, Jesu! blandule! / Si non dormis, Mater plorat, / Inter fila cantans orat, / Blande, veni, somnule.

ENGLISH

Sleep, sweet babe! my cares beguiling: / Mother sits beside thee smiling; / Sleep, my darling, tenderly! / If thou sleep not, mother mourneth, / Singing as her wheel she turneth: / Come, soft slumber, balmily!

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The Virgin's Cradle-Hymn is listed on Textopian as a poem by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1796 CE.

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Work type: Poem
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1796 CE
Language: English
Genres: Religious Poetry, Lyrical Poetry, Romanticism, Childrens' Literature, Narrative Poetry
Length: 129 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs

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Genres

Religious Poetry — The poem reflects themes of motherhood and divine care, central to religious and spiritual contexts.
Lyrical Poetry — The work employs a musical quality and emotional expression typical of lyrical poetry.
Romanticism — Coleridge's style and themes align with Romantic ideals, emphasizing emotion and nature.
Childrens' Literature — The content is suitable for children, focusing on a lullaby and maternal themes.