A HYMN TO GOD, THE FATHER by John Donne

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John Donne was an English poet, born in 1572. He was considered as the pre-eminent representative of the metaphysical poets. His works are noted for their strong, sensual style.

“A Hymn to God, the Father” also titled “To Christ” is taken from “Holy Sonnets”. In this poem the poet makes a confession on various degrees of sin – conscious, unconscious, infectious and damnable.

Donne begins the poem by referring to the sin of Adam and Eve, which led to the fall of man. This sin is inherited in every human being. So Donne asks for the forgiveness of God, though he is not directly involved in it. Donne also asks God to forgive the sins, that he has committed in his life and for the sin which he keeps committing, though he himself hate it. Donne creates a deliberate pun in the final lines of the stanza, challenging God. Donne is implying that once God has forgiven these two sinful traits, He is not finished because Donne still has more to be forgiven.

He continues with his pleading for the mercy of God. He repents to God for leading others to the path of sin. His sin has been a gate-way to other sinners. He also asks forgiveness for the sins that he has committed in his later life. He himself has avoided those sins in his earlier life, but later on because of the temptations, he indulged in those sins.

In the final stanza, Donne confesses his greatest sin. His greatest sin is his lack of faith in the Savior and divine grace. The author fears that he may not be saved but instead perish on the border of salvation. He wants God to assure him, that after his death; Christ will bestow His grace and love on him. If God gives this assurance then Donne will be on God’s side and he won’t have any fear afterwards.

Thus “A Hymn to God, the Father”, exhibits his fear of sin, death and judgment and his need for reassurance of salvation and eternal life.

--- HAPPY LEARNING------


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