Marry those loves, which in youth scattered be
On Fame, Wit, Hopes (false mistresses) to thee.
Churches are best for Prayer, that have least light:
To see God only, I go out of sight:
And to scape stormy days, I choose
An Everlasting night.
John Donne (1572-1631), Holy Sonnets, 1609.
One of England's most gifted poets was born a Roman Catholic. But during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I (1559-1603), and after a troubled youth and secret marriage, he became an Anglican and after obtaining favour in royal circles was ordained in 1615. He became Dean of S. Paul's Cathedral in 1621. Known as a love-poet, he is remembered best for his understanding of the potential spiritual union of two human beings, but also the inexpressible union of a Christian with God. This was accompanied by a deep consciousness of the gravity of sin and the need for God's mercy.
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