George Herbert was a priest in the Church of England and one of the most significant poets of the 17th century metaphysical poetry movement, including John Donne, Andrew Marvell, and others. Here is his poem “Easter” from The Temple. Rise heart; thy Lord is risen. Sing his praiseWithout delays,Who takes thee by the hand, that thou likewiseWith him …
Prayer (I) by George Herbert
One of the most powerful pictures of prayer in poetry comes from George Herbert's stunning poem "Prayer (I)." Herbert (1593-1633) was a poet, preacher, and pastor in the Church of England, serving as the rector of the parish of St. Andrews Church, Lower Bemerton. Today is designated as a feast day commemorating George Herbert and …
George Herbert, “Trinitie Sunday” – A Poem for Trinity Sunday
Last Sunday was Trinity Sunday and to reflect on that further, here is George Herbert's poem for that celebration. George Herbert was a 17th century English clergyman and poet who influenced his peers, including Thomas Traherne and Henry Vaughan, as well as later poets like Emily Dickinson, T. S. Eliot, and Elizabeth Bishop. This poem …
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George Herbert, “Easter Wings” [Poetry for Easter]
As I did two years ago, each week during Eastertide I will post a poem that helps me engage more meaningfully with the message of Christ's resurrection. Here is George Herbert's poem "Easter Wings" from The Temple. George Herbert was a priest in the Church of England and one of the most significant poets of …
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George Herbert, “Ash Wednesday” [Poetry for Lent]
Every Thursday during Lent, I am posting a poem I have found meaningful for entering into Jesus' journey to the Cross.This week, as we begin the Lenten journey, here is George Herbert's poem "Ash Wednesday." George Herbert was a poet and priest in 17th-century England. Welcome dear feast of Lent: who loves not thee, He …
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Matthew Erickson 