# God — Poetry character guide > God in Poetry by George MacDonald. **Role:** supporting **Also known as:** God **First appearance:** 0013-prayer ## Snapshot The Father at the great world's core, whom the poet addresses across a lifetime of prayer, doubt, and slow-won intimacy. ## Who they are In these poems God is less a doctrine than a presence the speaker keeps circling back to — first as a misty, far-off power from childhood, then as a heart discovered behind the veil of manhood. The recurring tension is distance and nearness: the poet shrinks from an embrace he feels unready for, drifts away, and returns to find the same waiting figure. This push-and-pull shapes the collection's devotional arc, making each hymn a step in a lifelong argument with the divine. ## Relationships ### [Jesus Christ](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters/jesus_christ) _family_ God and Jesus Christ share a divine father-son relationship rooted in love and sacrifice. ### [Satan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters/satan) _rivalry_ God and Satan are cosmic enemies locked in a struggle for souls and dominion. ### [Satan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters/satan) _rivalry_ God and Satan are cosmic enemies locked in a struggle for souls and dominion. ### [Satan](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters/satan) _rivalry_ God and Satan are cosmic enemies locked in a struggle for souls and dominion. ## In the story ### [To My Father](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-my-father) God is praised in the speaker's song and is later revealed to have a great human heart, mirroring the speaker's understanding of his earthly father. ### [A Hidden Life](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-hidden-life) Addressed as Father, the source of comfort and the one to whom the narrator surrenders. ### [To Aurelio Saffi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-aurelio-saffi) Invoked as the ultimate reference for truth and the recipient of the friend's devotion. ### [A Memorial of Africa](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-memorial-of-africa) Addressed as 'Thou' who is still making the world and will not forget the speaker. ### [Better Things](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/better-things) Implied as the object of trust and the source of the final 'Well done' ### [The Journey](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-journey) Referred to as 'God, the Truth' in the final line, the source of freedom and love. ### [Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/prayer) Addressed directly as the one who grants prayer and joy. ### [Rest](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/rest) Referred to as the Father who draws the dark and is the deep, still resting sea. ### [Light](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/light) Addressed as the 'Father of Lights' and source of all light; the poem explores light as a manifestation of God's presence and glory. ### [Blessed Are the Meek, for They Shall Inherit the Earth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-the-meek-for-they-shall-inherit-the-earth) Addressed as 'Father' in a prayer for meekness and the gift of the earth. ### [I Know What Beauty Is](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/i-know-what-beauty-is) The one who set the world within the speaker's heart. ### [I Would I Were a Child](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/i-would-i-were-a-child) Addressed as Father, the one who leads, keeps, and is asked to draw near. ### [The Lost Soul](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-lost-soul) Implied as the Father whose knee the soul was meant to reach, and whose breath might revive it. ### [A Story of the Sea-Shore](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-story-of-the-sea-shore) Addressed throughout as the source of comfort and resurrection, e.g., 'Raise thou the dead; restore the Aprils withered.' ### [O Do Not Leave Me](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/o-do-not-leave-me) Addressed directly in the final plea for unity and transcendence of separation. ### [The Flower-Angels](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-flower-angels) God is the sender of messages, formerly via angels, now through flowers. ### [To My Sister](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-my-sister) Referred to as the Father, source of divine calling. ### [Oh Thou of Little Faith](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/oh-thou-of-little-faith) The divine source of love and rest, described as our summer and dim-visioned Best. ### [Longing: My Heart Is Full of Inarticulate Pain](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/longing-my-heart-is-full-of-inarticulate-pain) Addressed as the God of mountains, stars, and boundless spaces, the source of solace and silence. ### [The Disciple](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-disciple) The narrator prays to an unknown God, feeling distant and unheard. ### [A Prayer for the Past](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-prayer-for-the-past) Addressed throughout the prayer as the one who preserves the past and holds the future. ### [Sympathy](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/sympathy) Referred to as the Father who does not need human comfort but gives comfort freely, smiling through the infant. ### [The Thank-Offering](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-thank-offering) Addressed as 'Father,' God is the recipient of the speaker's offering and the source of every gift; the poem is a prayer of thanksgiving and self-surrender. ### [The Burnt-Offering](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-burnt-offering) The divine source of the fire that kindles the soul's love. ### [The Unseen Face](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-unseen-face) God passes in cloud, hiding and revealing Himself, covering Moses with His hand. ### [Concerning Jesus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/concerning-jesus) Referred to as the creator who quickens clay and makes eyes, and as the Father whom Jesus reveals. ### [Death and Birth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/death-and-birth) Implied as the source of truth and the divine light that floods in when the wall is broken. ### [Death](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/death) Referenced as the one in whose sight the speaker will ever be, the source of strength and rest. ### [Lessons for a Child](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/lessons-for-a-child) Portrayed as the loving creator who cares for all creatures, from the spider to the fly, and fills each being with joy. ### [A Thanksgiving](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-thanksgiving) Addressed as the 'boundless Giver' who provides thoughts and inspiration. ### [VIII: The Widow with the Two Mites](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/viii-the-widow-with-the-two-mites) God is portrayed as delighting in generous giving and as the ultimate measure of true wealth. ### [XII: Mary Magdalene](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/xii-mary-magdalene) Referenced as the Father to whom Jesus ascends and whose heart is the eternal dwelling place for Mary. ### [Songs of the Days and Nights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/songs-of-the-days-and-nights) Addressed as 'Lord' in prayers for renewal and childlike faith. ### [Songs of the Autumn Days](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/songs-of-the-autumn-days) God is referenced as the one whose children, asleep, dream of spring amid the death of the year. ### [Songs of the Winter Nights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/songs-of-the-winter-nights) Addressed as 'Lord' and 'Father' in the speaker's prayer and reflection. ### [Songs of the Spring Nights](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/songs-of-the-spring-nights) Addressed as 'Lord' in the final stanza, asked to make the speaker more childlike ### [Somnium Mystici](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/somnium-mystici) Addressed as the Father and the one who opens doors between people, and as the source of love and revelation. ### [An Old Sermon with a New Text](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/an-old-sermon-with-a-new-text) Referred to as the weaver of life who places knots for a purpose. ### [The Wakeful Sleeper](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-wakeful-sleeper) Referred to as the Father, with whom the child remains even in sleep and trouble. ### [A Meditation of St. Eligius](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-meditation-of-st-eligius) Implied as the source of truth and restoration, addressed in the prayerful meditation. ### [Hymn for a Sick Girl](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/hymn-for-a-sick-girl) Addressed as 'Father' throughout the hymn, the source of hope and resurrection. ### [A Christmas Carol for 1862](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-christmas-carol-for-1862) Implied as the divine source from whom the child is sent; the poem prays to the Lord for intervention. ### [The Sleepless Jesus](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-sleepless-jesus) Referenced as the Father who goes to meet those who arise and go to Him. ### [The Children’s Heaven](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-children-s-heaven) The Father whose arms enfold both mother and child, offering a heaven without dark or doubt. ### [Blessed Are the Poor in Spirit](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-the-poor-in-spirit) Addressed as 'Our Father' and 'our Saviour', the one who hears the longing prayer and grants humility. ### [Blessed Are They That Mourn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-they-that-mourn) Addressed as Father, the source of grace and comfort. ### [Blessed Are the Meek](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-the-meek) Referenced as the source of divine sonship and the one who makes the sons of God divine. ### [Blessed Are They That Hunger](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-they-that-hunger) Addressed as the source of heavenly bread and water, the one who responds to the soul's longing. ### [Blessed Are the Merciful](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-the-merciful) Referred to as 'God the pitiful,' the source of tenderness and mercy. ### [Blessed Are the Pure in Heart](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blessed-are-the-pure-in-heart) Addressed as Father, the one whose face the pure in heart shall see. ### [Morning Hymn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/morning-hymn) Addressed as 'Lord of life' and 'my Lord', the divine presence that awakens and sustains the speaker. ### [Evening Hymn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/evening-hymn) Addressed directly as the one who leads down the daylight and grants sleep, and from whom forgiveness and cleansing are sought. ### [Noontide Hymn](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/noontide-hymn) Addressed throughout the hymn as the source of skies, winds, truth, people, and will. ### [What Makes Summer?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/what-makes-summer) Implied as the divine hand that holds the sun, giving it power and sustaining all creation. ### [Wild Flowers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/wild-flowers) Mentioned as the ultimate destination where flowers 'pass into the human mind, pass with it up into God.' ### [To Garibaldi, with a Book](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-garibaldi-with-a-book) Thanked at the end for the relief brought by the book. ### [The Holy Midnight](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-holy-midnight) God is the central presence in the poem, claiming the life He kindled and being the one in whom the soul dies and lives again. ### [Hard Times](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/hard-times) The Lord to whom the speaker addresses their plea and submits their sadness. ### [A Dream Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-dream-song) Addressed in the closing prayer: 'O Lord, how long... ere thy lovely kingdom bring the day!' ### [A Manchester Poem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-manchester-poem) God is referenced as the source of holiness in the home, the creator of nature, and the ultimate light. ### [Baby](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/baby) Implied as the creator who thought about the baby and brought it into being. ### [Willie's Question](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/willie-s-question) Referred to as the 'father of all' and 'Teacher and master high,' God is the ultimate source of the task and the still, small voice of duty. ### [Song of the Lonely](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-of-the-lonely) Addressed as 'Lord of splendour' and 'loving Father', the one whose countenance and presence are sought. ### [The Diary of an Old Soul](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-diary-of-an-old-soul) Addressed throughout as the source of life, love, and the object of the soul's yearning. ### [January](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/january) Addressed throughout as the source of life, truth, and comfort; the speaker pleads for divine presence and guidance. ### [February](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/february) Addressed as Father, Lord, and the source of strength and light. ### [March](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/march) Addressed as the source of love and life, the one who creates and refines, and the ultimate object of the speaker's devotion. ### [April](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/april) Referred to as the Father, the source of love and bliss, and the one whose will the speaker submits to. ### [May](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/may) Addressed throughout as 'my sire,' 'Lord,' and 'God,' the speaker seeks truth, deliverance, and intimate presence. ### [June](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/june) Referenced as the Father whose plan involves the diffusion of love and the ultimate drawing of hearts to Him. ### [July](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/july) Addressed as Father, Lord, and the one whose will governs all; the speaker clings to God's garment and seeks His presence. ### [August](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/august) The speaker addresses God directly throughout the chapter, expressing trust, doubt, and longing for divine presence. ### [September](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/september) Addressed as the source of all being and love, the one who calls names before sin. ### [October](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/october) Addressed as the potter, refiner, and father; the speaker surrenders to His shaping and refining work. ### [November](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/november) Invoked as Father, the source of tenderness and the one who helps the speaker become good and know divine love. ### [December](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/december) Addressed as Father, Maker, and the source of life and will; the speaker seeks His presence and rests in His will. ### [A Threefold Cord](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-threefold-cord) Referenced as the Father, the ruler who proves his rule even in prison, and the source of grace and light. ### [The Haunted House](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-haunted-house) The speaker appeals to God for sorrow and relief, acknowledging that the criminal lives by God's spirit. ### [In the Winter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/in-the-winter) Referred to as 'their Maker' and 'their sun,' around whom the old worlds gather. ### [Christmas-Day, 1878](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/christmas-day-1878) Referred to as the Father, with Christ as the Son, and the speaker as His child. ### [Smoke](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/smoke) Addressed as 'Lord' and 'perfect Giver'; the recipient of the speaker's imperfect offering. ### [A Cry](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-cry) The divine thinker and source of all thought and being, addressed by the speaker. ### [To My Mother Earth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-my-mother-earth) Referred to as 'the Godhead' and 'him that fashioned all,' the ultimate source and object of worship. ### [O Lord, How Happy!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/o-lord-how-happy) The Lord in whose love the soul rests and finds pardon and care. ### [No Sign](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/no-sign) The Lord addressed in the poem, whose silence prompts the speaker's longing. ### [The Chrysalis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-chrysalis) Implied as the Lord to whom the cry is addressed. ### [November, 1851](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/november-1851) Implied as the distant source of life and the object of lost faith. ### [Triolet: Few in Joy’s Sweet Riot](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/triolet-few-in-joy-s-sweet-riot) Implied as the 'Thou' who quiets the speaker and puts them in prison to make the heart listen. ### [A Broken Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-broken-prayer) Addressed throughout as 'my God', 'O Lord', 'Mighty One'; the recipient of the broken prayer. ### [Come Down](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/come-down) Addressed as 'my Father,' the one the speaker implores to come down into the heart. ### [A Thanksgiving for F. D. Maurice](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-thanksgiving-for-f-d-maurice) Implied as the source of grace and the one in whom Maurice now dwells. ### [The Carpenter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-carpenter) Referred to as the Father whose will is done through the speaker's work. ### [In February](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/in-february) God is portrayed as the author of hope, love, and joy in nature. ### [The True](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-true) Addressed as 'O Lord' in the final plea to be drawn to the true heaven. ### [Punishment](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/punishment) Referred to as the ruler who is angry but whose presence is felt through creation. ### [Show Us the Father](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/show-us-the-father) Referred to as the Father, whose face is sought through nature and conscience. ### [The Pinafore](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-pinafore) Addressed as 'Lord' in the final stanza, asked to hide and then unveil the narrator's heart. ### [The Prism](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-prism) Addressed as 'Lord' and 'Father in heaven,' the source of grace and light that cannot be stored. ### [Hunger](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/hunger) Addressed as 'Father' and 'Lord'; the one from whom bread and hunger are sought and received. ### [To the Clouds](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-the-clouds) Addressed directly as the source of rain and glory drawn from the clouds and human activity. ### [Come to Me](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/come-to-me) The divine being the speaker longs for. ### [The Lost House](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-lost-house) Addressed as 'my God, my father-king' and the father at whose knee the narrator kneels. ### [The Goal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-goal) Presented as the singular source of perfect end and true self or friendship. ### [A Vision of St. Eligius](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-vision-of-st-eligius) Holds the speaker's string, stands calm on the door-sill, remolds the kite into a bird. ### [Of the Son of Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/of-the-son-of-man) Referred to as the Father and the Eternal Father, who sent Jesus as a living gift and bound all things in unity. ### [A Song-Sermon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-song-sermon) Implied as the one whose wrath is endured and whose remembrance is sought. ### [Consider the Ravens](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/consider-the-ravens) Referred to as 'our father' who is present even at the sparrow's death, emphasizing divine care. ### [After the Fashion of an Old Emblem](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/after-the-fashion-of-an-old-emblem) Implied as the source of the 'eternal sea' and the one whose presence is awaited in the garret. ### [George Rolleston](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/george-rolleston) Described as 'life's great father' who leads and raises the child. ### [A Prayer in Sickness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-prayer-in-sickness) Addressed as Father and being-giver, the one who folds the speaker in sickness and from whom the speaker seeks deliverance. ### [Let Your Light So Shine](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/let-your-light-so-shine) Addressed as 'O Lord' and 'the shining God'; the source of the inner light and the one who kindles the lamp. ### [The Souls’ Rising](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-souls-rising) Invoked by the tormented spirit who wishes to be a child again to nurse faith and power. ### [Awake!](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/awake) Referenced as the infinite One whose angel is present. ### [To an Autograph-Hunter](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-an-autograph-hunter) Referenced as the one who called the ideal name from the eternal mind. ### [Not Understood](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/not-understood) Referenced as the source of changeless blood that runs through immortal veins. ### [Hom. Il. V 403](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/hom-il-v-403) Referenced as the ultimate source of bliss and the impulse for righteous living. ### [The Prophet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-prophet) The divine presence that fills the prophet. ### [The Watcher](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-watcher) The watcher's eyes and hands suggest a divine presence observing and blessing humanity. ### [The Lily of the Valley](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-lily-of-the-valley) Referenced as the one who watches beside our deepest woe, embodying patience and grace. ### [Provision](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/provision) Referred to as the Almighty who sends the thunder-word. ### [Sudden Calm](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/sudden-calm) Implied as the one whose gate the speaker approaches, representing the divine threshold. ### [God in Growth](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/god-in-growth) Referenced as the source of glory that flashes in the silence and sends messages through nature. ### [Power](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/power) Referenced as the source of true power. ### [What Man Is There of You?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/what-man-is-there-of-you) Implied as the Father who gives bread, contrasted with human doubt. ### [O Wind of God](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/o-wind-of-god) Addressed as the source of the wind that blows through the mind and spirit. ### [Shall the Dead Praise Thee?](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/shall-the-dead-praise-thee) Addressed as Father; the speaker blesses Him for His perfect, rhythmic heart and for the pains that draw the speaker near. ### [One with Nature](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/one-with-nature) Referenced as the source of peace and majesty in the withered heart of man. ### [Song-Sermon: Lord, What Is Man](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-sermon-lord-what-is-man) Addressed as 'Lord' in the meditation on human worth. ### [Shadows](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/shadows) Addressed as the Lord whose shadow is the sun and all creation; the speaker's soul is a shadow of His word. ### [A Winter Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-winter-prayer) Implored to come through gloom, pain, and fear to lift the speaker's heart and speak wisdom. ### [Song of a Poor Pilgrim](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-of-a-poor-pilgrim) Addressed as 'Thou who mak'st the roses,' the divine creator who uses thorns to guide and strengthen the pilgrim. ### [An Evening Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/an-evening-prayer) Addressed as the Potter and Father, the source of peace and strength. ### [Song-Sermon: Mercy to Thee, O Lord, Belongs](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-sermon-mercy-to-thee-o-lord-belongs) Addressed as the Lord to whom mercy belongs, who gives work to man and lays bans on ills. ### [Christmas, 1880](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/christmas-1880) Referred to as the Father, whose heart and will are the source of Christ's mission and the goal of the prodigal's return. ### [Rondel: I Do Not Know Thy Final Will](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/rondel-i-do-not-know-thy-final-will) Addressed as the one whose final will is unknowable yet good, and whose love is capable of sending woe. ### [The Sparrow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-sparrow) Addressed as 'O Lord' throughout the poem, the recipient of the speaker's meditation on bird song and praise. ### [December 23, 1879](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/december-23-1879) Referred to as the one whose nest holds the speaker and whose will strings all lovely things. ### [Song-Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-prayer) The divine being whose face the speaker yearns to see. ### [Sunday, December 28, 1879](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/sunday-december-28-1879) Addressed as 'my Father' and 'the Power that lives,' the narrator finds his being and safety in God. ### [Song-Sermon: In His Arms Thy Silly Lamb](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-sermon-in-his-arms-thy-silly-lamb) Implied as the shepherd gathering the lamb to his breast. ### [Cottage Songs](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/cottage-songs) Present everywhere, watching over the baby, sweeping for lost shillings, and illuminating cottage rooms. ### [I: By the Cradle](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/i-by-the-cradle) Described as being round us everywhere, like the wind, watching over the family. ### [II: Sweeping the Floor](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/ii-sweeping-the-floor) Imagined as a sweeper looking for a lost shilling, blending divine presence with domestic imagery. ### [V: Cleaning the Windows](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/v-cleaning-the-windows) Implored to shine into the speaker and reveal hidden flaws. ### [An Improvisation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/an-improvisation) Implied as the source of the summer night and eternal stillness. ### [Equity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/equity) The Lord is depicted as throned in equity, holding the righteous balance and ensuring justice. ### [Contrition](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/contrition) Addressed as Father, Lord, and Savior; the one to whom the soul cries for lifting and cleansing. ### [To One Threatened with Blindness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-one-threatened-with-blindness) Addressed as the Father who brings light and broods over the afflicted like a mother's heart. ### [To Aubrey de Vere](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-aubrey-de-vere) The divine will that both the speaker and Aubrey de Vere seek to follow. ### [General Gordon](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/general-gordon) The Father who glorifies Gordon and calls him home. ### [Christmas, 1873](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/christmas-1873) Referenced in the closing line as the recipient of glory. ### [To My Aging Friends](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-my-aging-friends) Mentioned as the source of enduring love: 'Ours is a love that never ends, For God is dearest there!' ### [Christmas Song of the Old Children](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/christmas-song-of-the-old-children) Implored as 'Father' to take the aged children home. ### [Christmas Meditation](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/christmas-meditation) The Father whose throne is bound to Earth through Christ. ### [A Prayer: When I Look Back Upon My Life Nigh Spent](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-prayer-when-i-look-back-upon-my-life-nigh-spent) Addressed as 'Father' and 'Lord' in prayer, asked to take back the speaker and remake them as a child. ### [God; Not Gift](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/god-not-gift) The speaker addresses God directly, acknowledging His control over the speaker's spiritual desolation and expressing a hunger for His presence alone. ### [At My Window After Sunset](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/at-my-window-after-sunset) Addressed as 'Maker of heaven and earth, father of me' and 'Father of fathers, friend-creating friend'; the speaker finds comfort in His immanence. ### [A Father to a Mother](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-father-to-a-mother) Referenced as sending His own child to earth, highlighting divine fatherhood and sacrifice. ### [The Temple of God](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-temple-of-god) God is portrayed as coming down to answer prayer, and making his home in the heart of the meek. ### [Going to Sleep](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/going-to-sleep) Addressed as the heavenly father who clothes the child in everlastingness. ### [To-Morrow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-morrow) God's tomorrow is depicted as an angel and a brimming silver bowl of life. ### [Foolish Children](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/foolish-children) Implied as 'Lord' to whom prayers are directed and whose will is declared but shunned at evening. ### [Our Ship](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/our-ship) Referred to as the sovereign pilot steering the ship home. ### [My Heart Thy Lark](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/my-heart-thy-lark) Addressed as Father, the one who holds the speaker's heart and from whom the song originates. ### [A Prayer: Thou Who Mad’st the Mighty Clock](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-prayer-thou-who-mad-st-the-mighty-clock) Addressed as the creator of the cosmic clock and the one who sets all forces in motion. ### [Reciprocity](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/reciprocity) God is the object of the woman's trust and reciprocal care. ### [What the Lord Saith](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/what-the-lord-saith) The perfect glory and light, the Father who is trusted and loved. ### [How Shall He Sing Who Hath No Song](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/how-shall-he-sing-who-hath-no-song) God's glory is anticipated to fill the earth, enabling song and mirth. ### [This World](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/this-world) Addressed as the Father of all, who designs the world as a place of moral and spiritual education. ### [After Thomas Kemp](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/after-thomas-kemp) Referenced as the Father and the True, who is pleased by humility and love, and who judges not by disputation but by heart and deed. ### [To Gordon, Leaving Khartoum](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-gordon-leaving-khartoum) Referenced as 'the Lord' whose arm Gordon is called, and as the one who welcomes Gordon to heaven. ### [Song of the Saints and Angels](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/song-of-the-saints-and-angels) Addressed as Father, who knows the man and receives him. ### [Failure](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/failure) Referenced as 'the Lord' whose failure is the only failure known. ### [To E. G., Dedicating a Book](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-e-g-dedicating-a-book) The divine author who begins the tale and does not mean to end it. ### [To G. M. T.](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-g-m-t) God's love is described as shaming human pity and as the ultimate source of comfort. ### [In Memoriam Lady Caroline Charteris](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/in-memoriam-lady-caroline-charteris) Described as the source of grace and the heart of all love ### [The Clock of the Universe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-clock-of-the-universe) Addressed as 'Lord of life, and Father of boon' and 'our father, Allhearts’ All', the ultimate source of hope and the one who will end time. ### [The Thorn in the Flesh](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-thorn-in-the-flesh) The divine presence who speaks words of comfort and assurance. ### [Lycabas](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/lycabas) Implied as the Shepherd who gathers the lambs and leads the sheep-dogs. ### [In the Night](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/in-the-night) Referred to as the Father who made the speaker for good and loves him. ### [The Giver](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-giver) Portrayed as the giver who takes away with a smile, testing human hearts. ### [False Prophets](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/false-prophets) Referred to as the Father, whom false prophets do not know. ### [Approaches](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/approaches) Referenced as 'Father' and 'God's will', indicating the divine relationship. ### [Love Is Strength](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/love-is-strength) Identified as love and strength, the source of all sufficiency and safety. ### [Coming](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/coming) Addressed directly as 'Thou, God' and 'Father,' the poem affirms God's nearness even in winter's darkness. ### [Obedience](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/obedience) The one to be trusted and obeyed in all circumstances. ### [A Song in the Night: I Would I Were an Angel Strong](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-song-in-the-night-i-would-i-were-an-angel-strong) Addressed as 'Father of larks and children,' the one from whom growth is sought. ### [De Profundis](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/de-profundis) Addressed as 'O Father' and 'thee'; the speaker desires God to live in him and to know God as his father. ### [Blind Sorrow](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/blind-sorrow) The divine guide who walks unseen beside the sorrowful one, providing tender care and companionship. ### [The Father’s Worshippers](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-father-s-worshippers) Addressed as the Father whose bosom holds children who laugh and play. ### [A Birthday-Wish](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-birthday-wish) Mentioned as the one whose love may increase for the beloved. ### [To Any One](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-any-one) Present before sorrow arrives at the door. ### [Waiting: Lie, Little Cow, and Chew Thy Cud](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/waiting-lie-little-cow-and-chew-thy-cud) Addressed as the one who waits with the soul and brings weather and growth. ### [To My God](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-my-god) The divine presence who never forgets the speaker and wakes them. ### [Triolet](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/triolet) The subject of praise, who sends saving word and lifts people from death to light. ### [To the Life Eternal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-the-life-eternal) Addressed as the speaker's all, origin, and fate. ### [Forgiveness](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/forgiveness) Portrayed as a forgiving father who wipes the child's slate clean and offers to solve the sum together. ### [Dejection](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/dejection) Addressed as Father, the one to whom the speaker prays in the midst of dejection. ### [Appeal](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/appeal) Addressed as Father, the one the speaker clings to in darkness. ### [Dr. Doddridge's Dog](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/dr-doddridge-s-dog) Identified as the creator who made both the dog and the speaker, the source of love and giver of life. ### [The Girl That Lost Things](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-girl-that-lost-things) God is depicted as the Father who gathers children and preserves their losses. ### [A Make-Believe](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-make-believe) Invoked in the final prayer as the God of sparrows, rabbits, and men. ### [The Christmas Child](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/the-christmas-child) The 'father there' in heaven, described as being like the child, indicating the divine Fatherhood. ### [A Christmas Prayer](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/a-christmas-prayer) Referred to as the Father, whose knee is the seat of belonging. ## Links - HTML: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters/god - Book: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se - All characters: https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/poetry_8_se/characters