Children of Christmas and Others, By Edith M. Thomas, Classic Xmas Poems, Hudkins Publishing
This 1907 collection by Edith M. Thomas presents a medley of heartfelt and imaginative poems designed to captivate readers of all ages. The work is thematically diverse, ranging from the innocence of childhood and the magic of Christmas to reflections on nature, legends, and everyday moments.
Christmas-Themed Poems
The first section of the book is devoted to Christmas and winter-inspired poetry, with titles such as:
"Cradle Song for One Born at Christmas": A tender lullaby for a child whose birth is aligned with the Christmas spirit.
"Refreshments for Santa Claus": Likely a playful take on the offerings children leave for Santa on Christmas Eve.
"How the Christmas Tree Was Brought to Nome": A unique narrative about bringing holiday cheer to a remote location.
"Babushka": A retelling of a classic Russian legend about a woman who searches for the Christ child.
"The Firebrand": A historical vignette set in Northern Ohio on Christmas Eve, 1804.
These poems celebrate the wonder of the holiday season, integrating customs and legends from around the world.
Folklore and Legends
Many poems draw on European, Russian, and Middle Eastern legends:
"One of the Twelve" and "Meeting the Kings": These poems explore the Nativity story and the journey of the Magi.
"The Witch’s Child" and "The Giant’s Daughter": Fantastical narratives with mythical overtones.
"Buonamico": A legend rooted in Florence, Italy, highlighting Thomas’s appreciation for history and culture.
Everyday Life and Childhood
Thomas captures the humor, curiosity, and innocence of children in pieces like:
"The Indignant Baby" and "A Question of Spelling": Whimsical reflections on the antics of children.
"Yours Severely": A playful letter from a five-year-old, perhaps full of charming misunderstandings.
"The Cradle-Child": A celebration of the early stages of life.
Nature and Seasons
Thomas also weaves in her appreciation for nature with poems about the changing seasons, animals, and landscapes:
"The Prairie Nest," "The Widowed Eagle," and "The Chickadee": Observations of birds and their symbolic ties to the natural world.
"The Clock of the Year" and "The Young of Spring": Meditations on the cyclical nature of time and renewal.
"Frost-Flowers of the Pavement": A poetic look at the beauty of frost patterns, likely connecting them to the quiet wonder of winter.
Gratitude and Thanksgiving
The collection expands beyond Christmas to include other celebrations:
"The First Thanksgiving (1621)": A historical poem honoring the origins of the Thanksgiving tradition.
Stylistic Notes
Edith M. Thomas's style combines lyrical elegance with narrative depth. Her poems often reflect a Victorian sensibility, with rich imagery, moral underpinnings, and an emphasis on storytelling. While some pieces are whimsical and lighthearted, others are contemplative or infused with cultural wisdom.
Conclusion
Children of Christmas and Others serves as both a celebration of festive traditions and a broader exploration of life's joys, struggles, and connections to nature. The collection would appeal to readers seeking a blend of holiday cheer, folklore, and poetic reflection.