Eddis Service

By Rudyard Kipling

Narrative Poem
Eddi, priest of St. Wilfrid In his chapel at Manhood End, Ordered a midnight service For such as cared to attend. But the Saxons were keeping Christmas, And the night was stormy as well. Nobody came to service, Though Eddi rang the bell. "'Wicked weather for walking," Said Eddi of Manhood End. "But I must go on with the service For such as care to attend." The altar-lamps were lighted,, An old marsh-donkey came, Bold as a guest invited, And stared at the guttering flame. The storm beat on at the windows, The water splashed on the floor, And a wet, yoke-weary bullock Pushed in through the open door. "How do I know what is greatest, How do I know what is least? That is My Father's business," Said Eddi, Wilfrid's priest. "But, three are gathered together, Listen to me and attend. I bring good news, my brethren!" Said Eddi of Manhood End. And he told the Ox of a Manger And a Stall in Bethlehem, And he spoke to the Ass of a Rider, That rode to Jerusalem. They steamed and dripped in the chancel, They listened and never stirred, While, just as though they were Bishops, Eddi preached them The World, Till the gale blew off on the marshes And the windows showed the day, And the Ox and the Ass together Wheeled and clattered away. And when the Saxons mocked him, Said Eddi of Manhood End, "I dare not shut His chapel On such as care to attend."

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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 fascinating exploration of dedication, humility, and faith, set in a historical context. The protagonist, Eddi, is a priest who, despite the stormy weather and absence of human attendees, proceeds with his midnight Christmas service. The tone is primarily serious and reverential, tempered with a gentle, almost whimsical humour. The only attendants to his sermon are an ox and a donkey, a clear biblical allusion that serves to underscore the Christian themes within the poem.

The structure is straightforward, with a clear narrative progression that leads us from Eddi's initial decision to hold the service, through to the unusual sermon and the animals' departure. The use of end rhyme gives the poem a rhythmic quality that complements its storytelling nature. The poet's choice of language is accessible yet evocative, creating vivid images - like the animals "steamed and dripped in the chancel" - that stick in the reader's mind. The repeated line, "Said Eddi of Manhood End," is an effective refrain, reinforcing Eddi's character and his connection to his location. The poem's message seems to be a celebration of faith that endures in spite of ridicule or lack of recognition, embodied in Eddi's unshakeable devotion and the chapel he refuses to close.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.