George Herbert’s Day
Feast of Saint George Herbert
‘Flesh is But the Glass, which Holds the Dust that Measures All Our Time’
About George Herbert’s Day
Today is our final day of poetry. Many of the themes we’ve encountered over these 120 days are well represented in the work of George Herbert. Born this day in 1593, Herbert was a metaphysical poet and an Anglican priest. He was also the author of The Temple, a poetic masterpiece about faith and grace, laid out (more literally than you might think) like a church, chapel by chapel, image by image. Herbert discovers holiness in simple acts, and he accepts human frailty without reservation as the price of knowing Christ. He suffers with us, as Christ did, in earnest fellowship. His poetry is rooted in compassion for our shared condition and an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the grace of Christ, which is undeserved. In welcoming the goodness of Christ with such openhearted clarity, his voice at times becomes magisterial. I find it moving, and you might too. This day isn’t for everyone. If metaphysical religious poetry isn’t your cup of tea, no one will mind. But for those drawn to it, there is almost no better companion than Herbert at twilight, with a warm mug of honeyed tea and an hour to spare. There are no assigned activities today. Do as you please. If you’re curious, begin with “Easter Wings.” If you’re feeling more ambitious, read The Temple in full. 279
Adornments
Watch
Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter...and Spring (2003)
This Korean film takes place on a small, isolated monastery that floats on a tranquil lake, where a monk and his young apprentice move through the stages of life. The story unfolds slowly, without sentimentality, as it traces the rhythms of birth, desire, betrayal, suffering, and spiritual renewal.
Read
Easter Wings by George Herbert
Herbert is the day’s namesake poet. His well-known shape-poem, arranged on the page to resemble wings, offers a brief but profound reflection on suffering and renewal. Herbert links personal hardship with the possibility of spiritual ascent, suggesting that affliction is not merely endured but ultimately uplifting.