Affliction (IV)

 Broken in pieces all asunder, 
Lord, hunt me not, 
A thing forgot, 
Once a poor creature, now a wonder, 
A wonder tortur'd in the space
Betwixt this world and that of grace.

My thoughts are all a case of knives, 
Wounding my heart
With scatter'd smart, 
As wat'ring pots give flowers their lives.
Nothing their fury can control, 
While they do wound and prick my soul.

All my attendants are at strife, 
Quitting their place
Unto my face: 
Nothing performs the task of life: 
The elements are let loose to fight, 
And while I live, try out their right.

Oh help, my God! let not their plot
Kill them and me, 
And also thee, 
Who art my life: dissolve the knot, 
As the sun scatters by his light
All the rebellions of the night.

Then shall those powers, which work for grief, 
Enter thy pay, 
And day by day
Labour thy praise, and my relief; 
With care and courage building me, 
Till I reach heav'n, and much more, thee.

Form: Lyric Comments

Comments About This Poem

Share your interpretation, favorite passage, or thoughts about this famous poem. Please provide an in-depth and meaningful comment.

  • What do you think the poet was trying to say?
  • Which line had the biggest impact on you?
  • How does this poem relate to modern life?
  • What literary devices did you notice?
No comments have been posted yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace