St. Philip in Himself explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• The Role of the Saint

  St. Philip is portrayed as a saintly figure whose sweetness, ecstasy, and fragrance inspire and transform others, embodying the ideal of saintly influence.

• The Church and Tradition

  The poem celebrates various religious orders (Monks, Friars, Jesuits) within the Church, highlighting the tradition of monastic and mendicant life.

Characters to notice

• St. Philip

  The central figure of the chapter, described as an old man of sweet aspect with a head of snow, ready smile, keen eye, and kindling words, who ventures to the North to melt a stubborn race.

• The Friars

  Mentioned as a zealous band led by Dominic or Francis, standing where foes are fierce or friends have fled.

• Philip Neri

  Addressed directly as 'O sainted Philip, Father dear,' with a plea for his little ones to copy his loveliness.

Key passages

• “The holy Monks, conceal’d from men, In midnight choir, or studious cell, In sultry field, or wintry glen, The holy Monks, I love them well.”

  I deeply admire the holy monks, who live hidden from the world, whether praying at midnight, studying in their cells, or working in harsh conditions.

  Expresses affection for the monastic life in various settings.

• “Yet there is one I more affect Than Jesuit, Hermit, Monk, or Friar, ’Tis an old man of sweet aspèct, I love him more, I more admire.”

  But there is one person I love even more than all these religious figures: an old man with a sweet appearance, whom I admire above all.

  Highlights the speaker's special devotion to St. Philip Neri.

• “He lifts his hands, there issues forth A fragrance virginal and rare, And now he ventures to our North, Where hearts are frozen as the air.”

  When he raises his hands, a pure and uncommon fragrance emanates, and now he dares to come to our northern land, where people's hearts are as cold as the climate.

  Describes St. Philip's miraculous fragrance and his mission to England.