The Oxen, Thomas Hardy: Poem, Analysis & Themes
The Oxen is a reflective and nostalgic poem written by Thomas Hardy, first published in 1915. The poem captures the wistful longing for the innocence and faith of childhood, set against the backdrop of a traditional Christmas Eve tale. Hardy uses the imagery of kneeling oxen to explore themes of belief, doubt, and the passage of time.
It begins with a cozy scene by the hearth and progresses into a poignant meditation on faith, hope, and the comfort of old stories. The poem resonates with Hardy’s characteristic exploration of human emotions and the complexities of belief. Poem: "The Oxen" by Thomas Hardy
Christmas Eve, and twelve of the clock.
“Now they are all on their knees,”
An elder said as we sat in a flock
By the embers in hearthside ease.
We pictured the meek mild creatures where
They dwelt in their strawy pen,
Nor did it occur to one of us there
To doubt they were kneeling then.
So fair a fancy few would weave
In these years! Yet, I feel,
If someone said on Christmas E…
