George MacDonald’s Diary of an Old Soul is a profound and deeply moving collection of devotional poetry that offers readers a glimpse into the spiritual journey of a man wrestling with faith, doubt, and the complexities of the human soul. Originally published in 1880 as a gift for friends, this work consists of 366 seven-line stanzas, one for each day of the year, including leap years.
The full title, “A Book of Strife, in the Form of the Diary of an Old Soul,” aptly captures the essence of this work. MacDonald’s verses are not mere feel-good spirituality but a raw and honest record of a Christian’s spiritual highs and lows. The poet’s willingness to confront his own struggles with sin, spiritual inertia, and life’s challenges makes this work particularly relatable and powerful.
MacDonald’s poetic style is both accessible and profound. His verses are rich with biblical allusions and theological insights, yet they remain deeply personal and emotionally resonant. The author’s intimate relationship with God is evident throughout, as seen in lines like “My soul breathes only in thy infinite soul; / I breathe, I think, I love, I live but thee.”
One of the most striking aspects of “Diary of an Old Soul” is its trinitarian conception of the Christian life. MacDonald beautifully expresses the believer’s union with Christ, animation by the Holy Spirit, and persistent prayer to the Father. This theological depth, combined with the poet’s raw honesty, creates a work that is both intellectually stimulating and spiritually nourishing.
The book’s structure, with a poem for each day of the year, makes it an ideal companion for daily devotional reading. MacDonald originally included blank pages opposite each poem, encouraging readers to write their own reflections. This interactive element adds a unique dimension to the reading experience, inviting readers to engage more deeply with the text and their own spiritual journey.
While the poems do not follow the liturgical year, they often reflect the circumstances of MacDonald’s life, including the loss of a child and financial struggles. This grounding in real-life experiences adds authenticity and relatability to the work.
“Diary of an Old Soul” is not without its challenges. Some readers may find the language and style occasionally difficult to decipher, requiring careful attention and rereading. However, this complexity also contributes to the work’s depth and rewards repeated engagement.
MacDonald’s exploration of themes such as God’s sufficiency, human dependence on divine grace, and the longing for spiritual growth resonates across time and denominational boundaries. His ability to give voice to the various seasons of the spiritual journey makes this work a valuable resource for believers in all stages of faith.
In conclusion, “Diary of an Old Soul” is a masterpiece of devotional literature that continues to inspire and challenge readers more than a century after its initial publication. Its combination of poetic beauty, theological depth, and raw honesty makes it a timeless classic that deserves a place on the shelves of anyone interested in spiritual poetry or seeking a deeper connection with God.
P.S. Book reviews like this are NOT an endorsement of the author or everything the author believed, said, or did.
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