The Penitent

Author: Anne Bronte

    I mourn with thee and yet rejoice
    That thou shouldst sorrow so;
    With Angel choirs I join my voice
    To bless the sinner's woe.

    Though friends and kindred turn away
    And laugh thy grief to scorn,
    I hear the great Redeemer say
    'Blessed are ye that mourn'.

    Hold on thy course nor deem it strange
    That earthly cords are riven.
    Man may lament the wondrous change
    But 'There is joy in Heaven'!
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Type of Poem: Elegy

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

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Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a powerful exploration of the tension between grief and joy, suffering and salvation, grounded in a Christian worldview. The speaker expresses empathy for the sorrow of others, while also finding cause for celebration in their despair. The poem's themes center around faith, redemption, and the transformative power of sorrow, suggesting that suffering can lead to spiritual growth or enlightenment.

The poem's tone is one of solemn comfort, providing reassurance amidst sorrow and isolation. The speaker's voice is compassionate and encouraging, offering solace through shared mourning and an affirmation of divine love and blessing. The structure of the poem is regular and rhythmic, contributing to a soothing, hymn-like quality that reinforces its spiritual themes.

Key literary devices include the use of apostrophe, as the speaker directly addresses an imagined or absent individual in their lament, and repetition, with the refrain "Blessed are ye that mourn". These devices, along with the use of religious imagery and references, enhance the poem's emotive impact and thematic depth. The concluding lines particularly stand out, offering a hopeful perspective on the transition from earthly suffering to heavenly joy. Overall, the poem presents a nuanced reflection on the complexities of human emotion and the promise of spiritual solace.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.