
audiobook
Transcriber’s Note: Poems are ordered by publication year (goal is the earliest available at least with legible text), then alphabetically intrayear (ignoring “A”, “An”, and “The”). Poems appear as printed in source unless changes are given in the notes; however, to avoid much repetition in the notes, here it’s stated that all poem titles have been standardized for consistent appearance. Investigation of spelling involved Google’s Ngram Viewer. Where Mr. Flynn reused a title, the version is indicated by the year in the title (e.g. title v1921). Alternative text was created for illustrations. Poem titles are linked to Appendix 1, which was created for this book and is ordered alphabetically by poem title. Appendix 2 also was created for this book. Additional new material, and the compilation, are granted to the public domain.
COLLECTED POEMS OF CLARENCE EDWIN FLYNN
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
PREFACE
POEMS
APPENDIX 1: BYLINES, BIBLIOGRAPHY, NOTES
APPENDIX 2: INDEX
APPENDIX 3: UPDATES & REVISIONS WITH THE 2ND EDITION
APPENDIX 4: INACCESSIBLE POEMS
Spanning the poet’s early years up to 1930, this anthology gathers a wide range of verses that blend earnest spiritual reflection with a keen eye for everyday wonder. The poems move from modest hymnal meditations to light‑hearted sketches of country life, offering snapshots of a clergyman’s attempt to make sense of the world through both reverence and humor. Readers will encounter tender observations on faith, the passage of time, and the simple rhythms of rural America, all rendered in clear, accessible language.
Meticulously transcribed from original publications, the collection is organized chronologically and supplemented with detailed notes, indexes, and appendices that illuminate obscure references and variant titles. A standout piece follows the rambling musings of Si Gidders, a lanky farmer whose endless “why” questions turn ordinary curiosities into a playful meditation on the quirks of nature and human experience. The edition’s careful editing makes these early 20th‑century verses inviting for both longtime admirers and newcomers eager to hear the quiet voices of a bygone era.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (186K characters)
Release date
Feb 2, 2026
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1886–1970
A Methodist minister, lecturer, and prolific early 20th-century writer, he brought faith, everyday life, and moral reflection together in plainspoken poems and essays. His work ranges from devotional verse to lively prose shaped by years in the pulpit and on the lecture platform.
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