Poetry Explorer


Classic and Contemporary Poetry


MADONNA by FREDERIC ROWLAND MARVIN

First Line: BARE WAS THE BREAST THAT CRADLED CHRIST
Last Line: LIKE STARLIGHT ON THE DEAD.
Subject(s): COURTS & COURTIERS; CROWNS;

BARE was the breast that cradled Christ,
Pierced for the great world's sake;
She said: "If men forsake not sin,
This wounded heart must break."

Then down from Heaven a golden light
In robes of music fell;
A voice cried: "Thou art Queen of Heaven,
But I am King of Hell."

Seven silver flames her crown enclosed;
Their pallid lights were shed
Upon her face, to God upturned,
Like starlight on the dead.



Home: PoetryExplorer.net