The Hound of Heaven By: Francis Thompson (1859-1907)

The book opens with a captivating narrative that immediately grabs the reader’s attention. The protagonist embarks on a desperate quest to escape from the presence of a relentless hound, which represents the Divine seeking to draw him closer. Thompson’s vivid descriptions create a sense of urgency and tension, evoking powerful emotions in readers as they become engrossed in the protagonist’s struggle.

The hallmark of this book is Thompson’s exceptional command of language. His poetry is rich with metaphor and symbolism, guiding readers through the complex landscape of the human soul. Each verse serves as a reflective meditation, provoking deep thought and contemplation. The words are intricately woven together, creating a mesmerizing rhythm that elevates the reading experience.

Throughout the book, Thompson brilliantly conveys the paradoxical nature of human existence. The protagonist’s desperate attempts to evade the Divine’s pursuit highlight the universal struggle of individuals caught between the temptations of worldly desires and the longing for something more profound. This exploration of the human condition resonates deeply and leaves a lasting impression.

Another notable aspect of this book is its timeless relevance. Despite being written over a century ago, the themes and messages remain strikingly relatable in today’s society. Thompson’s insights into the constant chase for fulfillment and the inherent emptiness of worldly pursuits provide readers with a profound glimpse into their own lives and the human search for meaning.

One minor drawback of this book is the occasional obscurity of its language. At times, Thompson’s use of complex imagery and language can make it challenging to fully grasp the intended meaning. However, careful reflection and rereading often reveal deeper layers of understanding, ultimately enhancing the reading experience.

Overall, The Hound of Heaven is a masterfully crafted literary work that transcends time and speaks directly to the human spirit. Thompson’s ability to capture the universal longing for fulfillment and redemption in such a profoundly poetic manner is truly remarkable. This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a thought-provoking exploration of the human condition and a poetic journey into the depths of the soul.

First Page:

[Illustration: Cover art]

[Illustration: Front end papers]

THE HOUND OF HEAVEN

[Illustration]

[Frontispiece:

When she lit her glimmering tapers Round the day’s dead sanctities Page 52 ]

[Illustration: Title page]

THE HOUND OF HEAVEN

By FRANCIS THOMPSON

WITH ILLUSTRATIONS BY

STELLA LANGDALE

NEW YORK

DODD, MEAD AND COMPANY

1926

COPYRIGHT, 1922,

BY DODD, MEAD AND COMPANY, INC.

PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

INTRODUCTION

The Rev. Mark J. McNeal, S. J., who was one of the successors of Lafcadio Hearn in the chair of English Literature at the Tokyo Imperial University, in an interesting article recounts the following incident of his experience in that institution. “I was seated on the examining board with Professor Ichikawa, the dean of the English department… There entered the room a student whom I recognized as among the best in the class, a sharp young chap with big Mongolian eyes, and one who had never to my knowledge given any hint of even a leaning toward Christianity. I remembered, however, that his thesis submitted for a degree had been a study of Francis Thompson. Following the usual custom, I began to question him about his thesis.

“‘Why did you choose Thompson?’