Redemption
Redemption
Original Text
George Herbert, The temple. Sacred poems and private ejaculations, edited by N. Ferrar (Cambridge: T. Buck and R. Daniel, 1633), 31-32. STC 13183. Facs. edn. Menston: Scolar Press, 1968. PR 3507 T45 1633A.
1Having been tenant long to a rich Lord,
2 Not thriving, I resolved to be bold,
5In heaven at his manour I him sought:
8Long since on earth, to take possession.
10 Sought him accordingly in great resorts;
11 In cities, theatres, gardens, parks, and courts:
13 Of theeves and murderers: there I him espied,
14 Who straight, Your suit is granted, said, & died.
Notes
3] make a suit unto him: make a request of him. The phrase is usually used for matters of finance or love. Back to Line
4] small-rented lease: presumably, a lease whose requirements are not difficult to meet, as with low financial payments Back to Line
6] lately: recently Back to Line
7] dearly bought: paid a great price for Back to Line
9] straight: without delay Back to Line
12] ragged: The Oxford English Dictionary quotes this poem as an example of the use of "ragged" to mean harsh or discordant. Back to Line
Publication Start Year
1633
RPO poem Editors
Marc R. Plamondon
RPO Edition
2006
Rhyme
Form