A Christmas Carol
by May Probyn
Lacking samite and sable,
Lacking silver and gold,
The Prince Jesus in the poor stable
Slept, and was three hours old.
As doves by the fair water,
Mary, not touched of sin,
Sat by Him,- the King's daughter,
All glorious within.
A lily without one stain, a
Star where no spot hath room-
Ave, gratia plena,
Virgo Virginum.
Clad not in pearl-sewn vesture,
Clad not in cramoisie,
She hath hushed, she hath cradled to rest, her
God the first time on her knee.
Where is one to adore Him?
The ox hath dumbly confessed,
With the ass, meek kneeling before Him,
"Et homo factus est."
Not throned on ivory or cedar,
Not crowned with a Queen's crown,
At her breast it is Mary shall feed her
Maker, from Heaven come down.
The trees in Paradise blossom
Sudden, and its bells chime-
She giveth Him, held to her bosom,
Her immaculate milk the first time.
The night with wings of angels
Was alight, and its snow-packed ways
Sweet made (say the Evangels)
With the noise of their virelays.
Quem vidistis, pastores?
Why go ye feet unshod?
Wot ye within yon door is
Mary, the Mother of God?
No smoke of spice ascending
There-no roses are piled-
But, choicer than all balms blending,
There Mary hath kissed her Child.
Background to this poem
May Probyn (1856-1909) was an English poet whose work often blended gentle devotion with vivid, homey imagery. Her poem "A Christmas Carol" reflects that soft, prayerful tone. Although she wrote during the late Victorian period, her voice feels surprisingly warm and approachable today. She had a gift for capturing spiritual moments in simple language, and this poem is one of her tender reflections on the Nativity. You can read more about her life and work at EBSCO Research Starters.
In the opening lines, Probyn invites readers into a humble stable, a place lacking fine fabrics or glittering treasures. Instead of splendor, we are shown simplicity; a quiet space where the newborn Jesus rests. This contrast between royalty and poverty is at the heart of the poem. It reminds us that the Christmas story is filled with gentle surprises, and that holiness often enters the world in the most modest of ways.
As the poem unfolds, Probyn focuses on Mary, portraying her with reverence and warmth. The scene is peaceful, and the imagery feels close to the way many of us picture the Nativity in our own minds: a mother watching over her child, a tiny glow of hope in a dim stable. It is easy to imagine these lines being read aloud on Christmas Eve, or included in a handmade card to share a quiet, meaningful moment.
The language is musical without being complicated. Probyn uses small details to highlight the beauty of humility, and she gives readers a picture that is both comforting and reflective. This makes the poem especially suited to those who enjoy adding classic Christmas verse to crafts, cards, or thoughtful messages. A brief overview of her poetic style appears on Wikipedia, which notes her talent for devotional writing.
Readers who enjoy classic Christmas poetry often love this piece for its sense of peace. "A Christmas Carol" gently encourages us to pause, breathe, and return to the heart of the season. It celebrates not the glitter of Christmas, but its warmth. It is a beautiful choice for anyone who wants to bring a touch of old fashioned reverence into their holiday traditions, whether through reading, crafting, or sharing a favorite line with someone they love.
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