Explain the symbolism employed here. The poet speaks of himself as going through life like a traveller on a long journey, wherein he is constantly met by trials and temptations and cannot always know what is the right course to take. He acknowledges that he needs some stronger power than his own to direct his life and asks for the guidance of the Holy Spirit, content to trust himself to His leading in any dangers and difficulties that may arise in this life, and secure in the knowledge that "with the morn" he shall see once more those whom he has "loved" and "lost awhile". What is the main thought of the first stanza? The traveller prays for guidance. Of the second stanza? He states that he has not always been willing to ask for guidance, but had relied on his own reason. Of the third stanza? He expresses his belief in the power and willingness of God to guide him aright. What is the relation of the second stanza to the first one? It contrasts the poet's earlier attitude of mind toward God with that of later years, thus emphasizing the change that has taken place in his life. Is the poet stronger in the second case than in the first? No; in the first, his ideal is higher and his humility greater, as he relies absolutely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. In the second, relying only on his own reasoning powers to guide him, he made many humiliating failures. Image the "moor", the "fen", the "crag", the "torrent", and "with the morn". RECAPITULATION Summarize the main thoughts and lead the pupils to bring out clearly the comparison between the traveller and the poet. Give a brief account of the author's life. LEAD, KINDLY LIGHT (Third Reader, page 315) AIM To aid in the culture of a sensitive response to the spirit and language of the prayer. TREATMENT The teacher should read the poem aloud, to awaken respect for the deep humility, complete open-mindedness, and growing faith of the poet. What may this poem be called? A prayer for guidance. Stanza I What are the poet's feelings? He feels very much depressed in spirit, as a traveller would who was far from home and alone in the gathering darkness. Whom does he address as "Kindly Light"? Why does he use the term "Light"? He may remember that our Saviour called Himself "the Light of the world", and it is as his "Light" or Guide that the traveller feels his need of Him. He may be thinking of the Pillar of Fire and the Pillar of Cloud.