Hymn For The Fair At Chicago

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
    O God! in danger's darkest hour,     In battle's deadliest field,     Thy name has been our Nation's tower,     Thy truth her help and shield.     Our lips should fill the air with praise,     Nor pay the debt we owe,     So high above the songs we raise     The floods of mercy flow.     Yet Thou wilt hear the prayer we speak,     The song of praise we sing, -     Thy children, who thine altar seek     Their grateful gifts to bring.     Thine altar is the sufferer's bed,     The home of woe and pain,     The soldier's turfy pillow, red     With battle's crimson rain.     No smoke of burning stains the air,     No incense-clouds arise;     Thy peaceful servants, Lord, prepare     A bloodless sacrifice.     Lo! for our wounded brothers' need,     We bear the wine and oil;     For us they faint, for us they bleed,     For them our gracious toil!     O Father, bless the gifts we bring!     Cause Thou thy face to shine,     Till every nation owns her King,     And all the earth is thine.     1865.

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is notable for its use of religious and patriotic themes to convey a message of sacrifice, gratitude, and hope. Thematically, it intertwines the idea of a nation's struggle during a time of war with the concept of divine intervention and protection. The speaker appeals to a higher power, acknowledging that in the most dire circumstances, faith has been the nation's fortress. The repeated use of religious imagery and references to "prayer," "altar," and "sacrifice," supports this theme, making it evident that belief and spirituality form the backbone of the poem.

The tone is reverent and solemn, setting a somber mood that is befitting the conflict and struggles being portrayed. However, there is also an underlying current of optimism and resilience, particularly in the concluding lines where the poet asks for a blessing on their efforts and looks forward to a time of peace when every nation recognizes a common king.

The structure of the poem is consistent, with each stanza composed of four lines and following an ABAB rhyme scheme. This lends a rhythmic quality to the poem, enhancing its readability and flow. The poet also skillfully utilizes classic literary devices, such as metaphor and symbolism, to reinforce the themes and tone. The "sufferer's bed" and "battle's crimson rain," are powerful metaphors that vividly capture the grim realities of war and suffering. Similarly, the "wine and oil" symbolizes the care and healing brought forth by the compassionate, a stark contrast to the violence described earlier.

Overall, this poem provides a thoughtful exploration of faith, sacrifice, and patriotism in the face of adversity, leveraging vivid imagery and consistent structure to deliver its poignant message.

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.