Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Angel's Story" by Adelaide Anne Procter is a religious poem that tells the story of an angel who visits a dying child and shares with her the story of Christ's birth and the hope it brings to the world. The poem is structured as a dialogue between the angel and the child, with the angel describing the shepherds, wise men, and other figures present at the Nativity scene.

The poem's language is rich with imagery and sensory details, such as the "star so bright and beautiful" and the "soft low bleat" of the sheep. The use of dialogue between the angel and the child creates a sense of intimacy and tenderness, as the angel reassures the child that she will soon be with Jesus in heaven.

The poem was written in the mid-19th century, a time of great social and cultural change in England. During this time, there was a growing interest in spiritualism and the occult, as well as a renewed interest in traditional religious beliefs. These themes are reflected in "The Angel's Story," which explores the relationship between heaven and earth and the idea of divine intervention in human affairs.

Overall, "The Angel's Story" is a poignant and comforting poem that speaks to the power of faith and hope in the face of death. It offers a message of comfort and solace to those who have lost loved ones, reminding them that they too can find peace and joy in the story of Christ's birth.

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