Hymn by Voltairine De Cleyre (1911)

Name: Hymn
Author: Voltairine De Cleyre

The work presents a spiritual exploration, reflecting a yearning for peace and transcendence amidst the chaos of existence. It begins with a declaration of inner tranquility, suggesting that external turmoil cannot disturb the speaker's serene state. The imagery of ascending a mountain symbolizes a journey toward enlightenment and higher understanding, where the burdens of sorrow and suffering can be laid down. The speaker addresses the soul, urging it to rise and seek the divine within. This call to ascend is accompanied by the notion that true guidance comes from within, emphasizing introspection and self-discovery. The text suggests that the essence of divinity resides in every individual, promoting a sense of unity with a greater cosmic force. The work contrasts the idea of a distant, judgmental deity with a more intimate understanding of divinity as inherent in all beings. It posits that individuals are interconnected, much like waves in the ocean, suggesting an eternal bond with the divine. The conclusion reinforces the notion of wholeness, asserting that just as God is complete, so too are individuals in their essence. Overall, the piece encapsulates themes of inner peace, self-realization, and the interconnectedness of all souls, advocating for a personal understanding of divinity that transcends traditional religious constructs.

By Voltairine De Cleyre · First published 1911 · Genre: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual · 291 words

First lines

(This hymn was written at the request of a Christian Science friend who proposed to set it to music. It did not represent my beliefs either then or since, but rather what I wish might be my beliefs, had I not an inexorable capacity for seeing things as they are -- a vast scheme of mutual murder, with no justice anywhere, and no God in the soul or out of it.)

I am at peace -- no storm can ever touch me; On my clear heights the sunshine only falls; Far, far below glides the phantom voice of sorrows, In peace-lifted light the Silence only calls.

Ah, Soul, ascend! The mountain way, up-leading, Bears to the heights whereon the Blest have trod!

What this Textopian page supports

Hymn is listed on Textopian as a poem by Voltairine De Cleyre, 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: Voltairine De Cleyre
Date: 1911 CE
Language: English
Genres: Poetry, Philosophical, Spiritual, Religious, Anarchist
Length: 291 words
Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)

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Genres

Poetry — The work is structured as a hymn, utilizing poetic language and form to convey its themes.
Philosophical — The text explores deep philosophical themes regarding existence, divinity, and the nature of the self.
Spiritual — The content reflects spiritual aspirations and concepts of peace and unity with the divine.
Religious — Although the author does not align with traditional religious beliefs, the hymn format and references to God suggest a religious context.