For many years now I have embraced the meaningful and succinct poem, The Call, by George Herbert (1593-1633). Created primarily with all one-syllable words, the poem’s three powerfully moving stanzas, reflective of both the Old and New Testaments, are a model of economy of means. In my anthem for SATB chorus, a cappella, also titled The Call, I have sought to express George Herbert’s words in a straightforward and simple manner that is reflective of his poem. Composed in February 2025, The Call bears the following dedication: “Dedicated to Christopher Gilliam – Friend and choral conductor extraordinaire”
A native of Wales, George Herbert was one of ten children born into a prominent and influential family. Raised in England and a graduate of Trinity College, Cambridge, Herbert served for a time as the University’s Public Orator. He eventually took Holy Orders and became an Anglican priest. Sadly, however, due to his early death at age 39, he served as a priest for only three years. Prior to his ordination and likely, in part, due to his skills as an orator, George Herbert even briefly served as a member of the Parliament of England. Today, however, he is best remembered for his sacred poetry, with The Call being one of his best known and most beloved poems. It was first published in 1633 in a poetry collection entitled, The Temple.
Duration: ca. 3’ 00”
The Call
Come, my Way, my Truth, my Life;
Such a Way as gives us breath,
Such a Truth as ends all strife,
Such a Life as killeth death.
Come, my Light, my Feast, my Strength;
Such a Light as shows a Feast,
Such a Feast as mends in length,
Such a Strength as makes his guest.
Come, my Joy, my Love, my Heart;
Such a Joy as none can move,
Such a Love as none can part,
Such a Heart as joys in love.
George Herbert