In Due Observance of an Ancient Rite
In Due Observance of an Ancient Rite - meaning Summary
Infant Death and Consolation
The poem describes an old Biscayan custom for infant burial: the dead child is dressed in white, crowned with roses, carried to the grave in a procession led by the cross, and accompanied by choral song. The mother mourns but, amid communal ritual and Christian faith, her grief is eased and hope returns, turning sorrow into resilient consolation. The poem focuses on ritual’s role in shaping emotional response to early death.
Read Complete AnalysesIN due observance of an ancient rite, The rude Biscayans, when their children lie Dead in the sinless time of infancy, Attire the peaceful corse in vestments white; And, in like sign of cloudless triumph bright, They bind the unoffending creature's brows With happy garlands of the pure white rose: Then do a festal company unite In choral song; and, while the uplifted cross Of Jesus goes before, the child is borne Uncovered to his grave: 'tis closed,--her loss The Mother 'then' mourns, as she needs must mourn; But soon, through Christian faith, is grief subdued; And joy returns, to brighten fortitude.
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