In light of yesterday's post I was struck the other day by similar themes in this poem from Czeslaw Milosz. It's one of his last, from Selected and Last Poems (1931-2004):
Sanctificetur
What is a man without Your name on his lips?
Your name is like the first breath
and first cry of the newborn.
I utter Your name and I know You are defenseless,
since the power belongs to the Prince of this world.
You rendered things created unto the rule of necessity,
saving for yourself Man's heart.
A man who is good, hallows Your name,
whosoever desires You, hallows Your name.
High above this earth of indifference and pain,
Your name shines resplendent.
A note:
The title "sanctificetur" appears to be reference to the Lord's Prayer. In the Latin version of the Lord's Prayer sanctificetur is translated "Hollowed be" from the line "Hallowed be Thy Name."
