The Holy Of Holies

By Gilbert Keith Chesterton

Lyric Poem
    'Elder father, though thine eyes     Shine with hoary mysteries,     Canst thou tell what in the heart     Of a cowslip blossom lies?     'Smaller than all lives that be,     Secret as the deepest sea,     Stands a little house of seeds,     Like an elfin's granary,     'Speller of the stones and weeds,     Skilled in Nature's crafts and creeds,     Tell me what is in the heart     Of the smallest of the seeds.'     'God Almighty, and with Him     Cherubim and Seraphim,     Filling all eternity--     Adonai Elohim.'

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a profound exploration of the mysteries inherent in nature and the divine. Its structure includes a dialogue, invoking a sense of curiosity as the speaker asks an elder about the secrets of a cowslip blossom and the smallest seed. It uses this dialogue to gradually guide the reader from a place of innocent inquiry to a deeper realization of the divine omnipresence.

The poem opens with a tone of reverence and wonder, as the speaker seeks wisdom from an elder. The elder's eyes "shine with hoary mysteries" – a phrase that combines the imagery of light and age, suggesting a deep, time-earned wisdom. The questions posed are about the natural world, but they carry an undertone of philosophical inquiry. Their focus on the small and seemingly insignificant parts of nature—the heart of a cowslip blossom, the smallest seed—speaks to a theme of finding profound beauty and mystery in the minute details of life.

The poem concludes with a shift from questioning to revelation. The final lines elevate the poem's tone from naturalistic wonder to spiritual awe. The "little house of seeds" and the smallest seed are revealed to contain not just biological matter, but "God Almighty, and with Him Cherubim and Seraphim," filling all of eternity. This image serves as a powerful metaphor for the omnipresence of the divine, suggesting the idea that the divine essence can be found in all aspects of life, even in the smallest seed. This revelation reinforces the poem's central theme of the interconnectedness of the natural world and the divine, ultimately painting a picture of a universe where every small detail is imbued with sacred significance.

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.