# Rejoice explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by George MacDonald.

## What happens

The Sun, Wind, and Night each call upon man to rejoice in their respective glories, but man refuses, feeling his own labor is hopeless. Finally, a divine voice speaks directly to him, and man responds with joy.

## Themes in this chapter

### Spiritual Struggle and Doubt

Man's initial refusal to rejoice reflects a deep spiritual struggle and doubt about his own worth and purpose.

### Redemption and Grace

The divine voice that speaks directly to man brings redemption and grace, enabling him to finally rejoice.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The man who is addressed by the Sun, Wind, Night, and the divine voice, and who ultimately rejoices.

### The Wind

Calls man to rejoice, offering freedom and an ancient song.

### King Sun

Calls man to rejoice, promising glory and gladness.

### Moon

Part of the Night's call to rejoice with moon and star.

## Key lines

> Rejoice,” said the Sun; “I will make thee gay With glory and gladness and holiday; I am dumb, O man, and I need thy voice!” But man would not rejoice.

The Sun invites man to share in its joy and splendor, but man refuses.

_Man rejects the Sun's invitation to rejoice._

> Then a voice that came not from moon or star, From the sun, or the wind that roved afar, Said, “Man, I am with thee⁠—hear my voice!” And man said, “I rejoice.”

A divine voice, distinct from nature, assures man of its presence, and man finally rejoices.

_Man's joy comes only after hearing a direct divine voice._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/rejoice
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters