Hymn For The Same Occasion (The Two Hundredth Anniversary Kings Chapel)

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Lyric Poem
Sung By The Congregation To The Tune Of Tallis's Evening Hymn     O'ershadowed by the walls that climb,     Piled up in air by living hands,     A rock amid the waves of time,     Our gray old house of worship stands.     High o'er the pillared aisles we love     The symbols of the past look down;     Unharmed, unharming, throned above,     Behold the mitre and the crown!     Let not our younger faith forget     The loyal souls that held them dear;     The prayers we read their tears have wet,     The hymns we sing they loved to hear.     The memory of their earthly throne     Still to our holy temple clings,     But here the kneeling suppliants own     One only Lord, the King of kings.     Hark! while our hymn of grateful praise     The solemn echoing vaults prolong,     The far-off voice of earlier days     Blends with our own in hallowed song:     To Him who ever lives and reigns,     Whom all the hosts of heaven adore,     Who lent the life His breath sustains,     Be glory now and evermore!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem, set to the tune of Tallis's Evening Hymn, explores themes of tradition, faith, and the passage of time. The speaker describes a house of worship, metaphorically referred to as a "rock amid the waves of time," standing strong and unchanging amidst the fluctuations of life. The tone is reverent and nostalgic, creating a sense of continuity and reverence for the past.

The structure of the poem, with its regular rhyme scheme and rhythm, mirrors the steadfastness of the church and the rituals performed within it. The repeated reference to "the mitre and the crown" serves as a symbol of religious authority and continuity, emphasizing the connection between past and present worshippers. The phrase "One only Lord, the King of kings" reiterates the idea of monotheism, central to the Christian faith.

The use of auditory imagery, such as "the solemn echoing vaults prolong" and "the far-off voice of earlier days," brings to life the notion of the church as a living entity that carries the voices and prayers of generations. This blending of voices in "hallowed song" suggests unity and continuity within the community of faith. The poem ultimately culminates in a hymn of praise, showcasing the timeless glory of the divine.

In essence, the poem is a testament to the enduring power of faith and tradition, depicted through the symbol of the church and the communal act of worship.

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.