The Hound of Heaven by Francis Thompson - Poetry Reading

Reading "The Hound of Heaven" (1909), a haunting, almost Gothic poem that inspired G.K. Chesterton and J.R.R. Tolkien.

Sources / Further reading:

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INSTAGRAM: @classicsconsidered

[NCowick]

I've loved this since the first time I read it, such a great poem to share. I'm a Christian (though I'm not Catholic), so I appreciate not only the skill with which it's written, but the theme as well.

"For though I knew His love who followe d,
Yet was I sore adread, lest having Him,
I should have nought beside."

I’ve kind of always mentally paired this section with Solomon writing in Ecclesiastes, about all the things he saw or pursued, which ultimately turned out to be vanity.

Deciphering poems is far from my forté, but I do enjoy them. Every time I read this one I know there’s more I’m missing. It has some lines I really like though. For some reason I've always liked the line,
"I swung the Earth, a trinket at my wrist."
"
Enjoyed your poetry reading, as always!

[joycewoodring]

I came across a small portion of this poem that someone put in a newsletter or something and it was like they knew about my life. When I looked into it I was confused by the language, but it was obvious that the 'Hound of Heaven' was God. Thank you for your reading of this poem and the links you provided. God bless you.

[maggiepaul]

I knew what the poem was about, having heard of it. couldn't make out Francis was saying tho. 🙂almost gave up. but your beautiful voice kept me going nevertheless. thanks😍

[Chrisjani]

I wish that you didn’t shy away from its Catholicity. But, thank you as well.