# To Aurelio Saffi explained — Poetry

> Chapter companion for Poetry by George MacDonald.

## What happens

A poem of dedication and encouragement to Aurelio Saffi, urging him to remain true to God and man, to bring forth his treasures old and new, and to press on in his holy work despite the challenges of a raging world.

## Themes in this chapter

### Love as Ultimate Strength

The speaker's love for Saffi is expressed as a source of support and recognition of his calm strength and righteousness.

### Spiritual Struggle and Doubt

The poem contrasts the speaker's weakness and ignorance with Saffi's strength and wisdom, hinting at the spiritual struggle of the speaker.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown

The speaker who addresses Aurelio Saffi, expressing love and admiration for his calm strength and righteousness.

### God

Invoked as the ultimate reference for truth and the recipient of the friend's devotion.

## Key lines

> To God and man be simply true; Do as thou hast been wont to do; Bring out thy treasures, old and new⁠— Mean all the same when said to you.

Be honest with God and people; continue acting as you always have; share your wisdom and experiences, both past and present—these words mean the same when addressed to you.

_The opening lines establish the core exhortation to remain true and consistent in character._

> Thy heart, in every raging throng, A chamber shut for prayer and song.

Your heart remains a private sanctuary for prayer and music, even in the midst of a chaotic crowd.

_Highlights Saffi's inner peace and spiritual discipline amidst external turmoil._

> Defeat thou know’st not, canst not know, Although thy aims so lofty go They need as long to root and grow As infant hills to reach the snow.

You are unfamiliar with defeat, even though your goals are so high that they require as much time to take root and develop as young mountains need to reach the snow.

_Emphasizes Saffi's resilience and the long-term nature of his noble aspirations._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters/to-aurelio-saffi
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/poetry_8_se/chapters