This morning, I have been looking for a Christmas poem for HopeMail’s Christmas card and came across this pretty poem. It really struck a cord in me. It’s not the right poem for HopeMail, but it does set my heart and mind on Christmas.
Helen Maria Williams lived from 1761 until 1829. She was born in London, but most of her life was lived in France. She was a political activist and supported the revolutionists. At one point she was imprisoned by Napoleon for her political writing, and I wonder if that is when she received this Christmas Cake. I don’t know who Mrs. K is, but she certainly chose her gift well—it inspired this lovely, sentimental verse.
To Mrs. K____, On Her Sending Me an English Christmas Plum-Cake at Paris
by Helen Maria Williams
What crowding thoughts around me wake, What marvels in a Christmas-cake! Ah say, what strange enchantment dwells Enclosed within its odorous cells? Is there no small magician bound Encrusted in its snowy round? For magic surely lurks in this, A cake that tells of vanished bliss; A cake that conjures up to view The early scenes, when life was new; When memory knew no sorrows past, And hope believed in joys that last! — Mysterious cake, whose folds contain Life’s calendar of bliss and pain That speaks of friends for ever fled, And wakes the tears I love to shed. Oft shall I breathe her cherished name From whose fair hand the offering came: For she recalls the artless smile Of nymphs that deck my native isle; Of beauty that we love to trace, Allied with tender, modest grace; Of those who, while abroad they roam, Retain each charm that gladdens home, And whose dear friendships can impart A Christmas banquet for the heart!
As some may know, I today’s theme was a duplicate of 10/22’s theme. So, I’ve written a new theme for today. It’s a little different from the other themes, because am asking a question this time around.
Before you scroll down to read the new theme, I just want to express my thanks to you all for connecting and participating. I am catching up on reading posts, and enjoying them so much. It’s been great to meet many new bloggers! I love this little blogosphere world. ❤
Blogtober Theme for October 31:
If you knew the answer would be yes, what question would you ask?
As I was prepping tomorrow’s last post to share the last day’s theme, I noticed a really big mistake! Do you see it? Ohmygoodness! If you haven’t noticed it, I will point it out to you: I duplicated a theme: Day 22 is the same theme as Day 31. I feel pretty bad about this. Nothing to be done about the graphic now, of course, but I thought I should let it be known.
So, the theme tomorrow will be a SURPRISE. I will post it at 12:01AM, EST., for anyone who is interested. Not the end of the world, but maybe it’s kind of funny. ❤
The Saxophone Player's Wife 