A Hymn to God the Father

John Donne lived from 1572 to 1631, and he worked as a poet and priest in England. His poems on God, love, and religion are widely considered some of the most poignant poetry of all the metaphysical poets. The engraving on the left was done by Martin Droeshout just five weeks before Donne passed.

This piece is written for chorus and baritone soloist. Intervals are tight and compressed as the soloist wrestles with God. How far is God’s grace able to go? The piece ends in a joyous rapture of harmony and healing.

If you are interested in performing or purchasing the sheet music for this piece please contact me.

A Hymn to God the Father

Wilt thou forgive that sin where I begun,
Which was my sin, though it were done before?
Wilt thou forgive that sin, through which I run,
And do run still, though still I do deplore?
When thou hast done, thou hast not done,
For I have more.

Wilt thou forgive that sin which I have won
Others to sin, and made my sin their door?
Wilt thou forgive that sin which I did shun
A year or two, but wallow'd in, a score?
When thou hast done, thou hast not done,
For I have more.

I have a sin of fear, that when I have spun
My last thread, I shall perish on the shore;
But swear by thyself, that at my death thy Son
Shall shine as he shines now, and heretofore;
And, having done that, thou hast done;
I fear no more.

- John Donne

updated January 31st, 2022