Christina Rossetti’s poem, “In the Bleak Midwinter,” was originally published as “A Christmas Carol” in the January 1872 issue of Scribner’s Monthly. In 1875, it was collected in the book “Goblin Market, The Prince’s Progress and Other Poems.”
The evocative text has been set to music several times, but two settings in particular stand out. Gustav Holst’s is also sometimes identified as the hymn tune “Cranham.” It was included in “The English Hymnal” in 1906. The simplicity and directness of the music was tailored by the composer for congregational use. Harold Darke’s setting, from three years later, is an anthem intended for trained choirs.
In either form, Rossetti’s poem has indeed become more widely known, as the inspiration for some actual, beloved Christmas carols.
Winter arrives in the Northern Hemisphere at 10:03 a.m. EST.
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Gustav Holst
Harold Darke
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IMAGE: “Adoration of the Shepherds” (1622), Gerard van Honthorst
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