The Orphan

Read 'The Orphan' by 'Jane Taylor' and provide your summary and literary analysis in the comments section below.

The Orphan by Jane Taylor

 My father and mother are dead, 
Nor friend, nor relation I know; 
And now the cold earth is their bed, 
And daisies will over them grow. 

I cast my eyes into the tomb, 
The sight made me bitterly cry; 
I said, "And is this the dark room, 
Where my father and mother must lie?" 

I cast my eyes round me again, 
In hopes some protector to see; 
Alas! but the search was in vain, 
For none had compassion on me. 

I cast my eyes up to the sky, 
I groan'd, though I said not a word; 
Yet GOD was not deaf to my cry,
The Friend of the fatherless heard. 

For since I have trusted his care, 
And learn'd on his word to depend, 
He has kept me from every snare, 
And been my best Father and Friend.

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