The Diary of an Old Soul

By George MacDonald

O Lord, until I have made my peace with thee, No dawn will ever come to make me whole; No morning peace shall ever welcome me, No evening bless the coming of the soul. But once I have begun my peace with thee, The fire will burn until it wholly bright; Then shall the morning peace welcome me, And evening bless the coming of the night. I will arise and go to my father's house; The way is long and rough and hard the road; But I will go, and leave behind the louse That gnaws the heart and cannot bear the load. For God doth know, and Christ hath borne, my pain; And he who suffered long for me shall reign.
Written: 1880-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1880-01-01
Date Published: 1880-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Soul, Peace, Faith, God, Repentance
Source: Poetical Works
Publisher: Alexander Strahan
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Analysis & Notes:
A deeply spiritual poem that reflects on the soul's journey toward peace with God, emphasizing repentance, faith, and the ultimate reign of Christ.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.


Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.