Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Meditation on the Nativity" is a poem by Elizabeth Jennings that was first published in her poetry collection titled "A Way of Looking" in 1965. The poem explores the significance of the birth of Jesus and the impact it has on humanity.

Explanation:

The poem reflects on the birth of Jesus and the implications it has for humanity. The poet marvels at the idea of God taking on human form and entering the world through the birth of a baby. The birth of Jesus is seen as a moment of hope and renewal for humanity, a time when God intervened in the world to bring salvation and redemption.

Poetic Elements:

• Imagery: The poet uses vivid and sensory imagery to evoke the atmosphere and emotions surrounding the birth of Jesus.
• Metaphor: The birth of Jesus is metaphorically compared to a new dawn, representing the hope and renewal it brings.
• Symbolism: The poem makes use of Christian symbolism associated with the nativity, such as the star of Bethlehem and the manger.
• Repetition: The phrase "Let us kneel before the mystery of love" is repeated throughout the poem, emphasizing the importance of the birth of Jesus as an act of love.
• Alliteration: The poet employs alliteration to create a musical effect in the poem, such as in the line "born in a borrowed bed".
• Rhyme: The poem has a consistent rhyme scheme, with each stanza following an ABAB pattern.
• Tone: The tone of the poem is reverential and contemplative, reflecting the awe and wonder of the birth of Jesus.

Conclusion:

"Meditation on the Nativity" is a powerful meditation on the birth of Jesus and its significance for humanity. Through vivid imagery, Christian symbolism, and a reverential tone, Elizabeth Jennings evokes the hope and renewal that the birth of Jesus brings to the world.

Poem Snippet:

"Let us kneel before the mystery of love

In that borrowed stable where for us he lay,

The Maker of the stars and sea and sun

Was born of flesh and moved into our day."