In the Bleak Midwinter has been a very important part of our ‘Maypoles to Mistletoe’ Show over so many years. Written by Christina Rossetti in 1872 her
poem was set to music by the English classical composer Gustav Holst. This tune was named “Cranham” after an English village, and it has remained in hymnals since its composition in the early 20th century. Martyn
IN THE BLEAK MID WINTER by Christina Rossetti
In the bleak mid Winter frosty winds made moan
Earth stood hard as iron water like a stone
Snow had fallen snow on snow snow on snow
In the bleak mid winter long long ago.
Angels and arc angels may have gathered there
Cherubim and Seraphim thronged the air
No one but His Mother in her maiden bliss
Worshiped the Beloved with a kiss.
What can I give Him poor as I am
If I were a shepherd I would give a lamb
If I were a wise man I would play my part
What I can I give Him give my heart.
In the bleak mid Winter frosty winds made moan
Earth stood hard as iron water like stone
Snow had fallen snow on snow snow on snow
In the bleak mid Winter long long ago.