Ella Wheeler Wilcox

Ella Wheeler Wilcox was an American poet and author known for her inspirational and often sentimental verse. Her poetry resonated widely with the public for its accessible style and optimistic themes, which frequently touched on love, nature, and positive thinking. Wilcox achieved significant popularity during her lifetime, with her works being widely published and embraced by readers seeking comfort and encouragement. She became a prominent voice, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, for her ability to distill complex emotions and life philosophies into memorable, quotable lines that continue to be recognized.

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Now I lay Me

Now I lay Me

When I pass from earth away,
Palsied though I be and gray,
May my spirit keep so young
That my failing, faltering tongue
Frames that prayer so dear to me
Taught me at my mother's knee:

'Now I lay me down to sleep,'

(Passing to Eternal rest
On the loving parent breast)

'I pray the Lord my soul to keep;'

(From all danger safe and calm
In the hollow of His palm

'If I should die before I wake,'

(Drifting with a bated breath
Out of slumber into death,)

'I pray the Lord my soul to take.'

(From the body's claim set free
Sheltered in the Great to be.)
Simple prayer of trust and truth
Taught me in my early youth-
Let my soul its beauty keep
When I lay me down to sleep.

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