A book of Christmas verse

A warm, reverent gathering of verses invites listeners to step into the heart of the holiday season. Curated with care, the collection weaves together medieval chants, Tudor hymns, and Victorian carols, each echoing the timeless wonder of Christmas. The selections are arranged to guide you from the quiet anticipation of Advent to the joyous celebration of the Nativity.

The anthology features works by some of the greatest poets in the English tradition—John Donne, George Herbert, John Milton, and Alfred Tennyson, among many others—alongside lesser‑known but equally moving pieces that have rarely been heard outside scholarly circles. Early carols sit beside familiar traditional songs, while later poems bring fresh perspectives from the early twentieth century, creating a rich tapestry of voice and style. Listeners will hear the gentle lullaby of “Lullay, my Liking” beside the stirring grandeur of “God rest you merry, gentlemen.”

Revised from its original 1895 edition, this volume adds newly discovered verses and thoughtful updates, offering a comprehensive soundtrack for anyone seeking the poetic spirit of Christmas. Whether heard at a quiet fireside or shared with family, the collection makes the season’s poetry feel both historic and alive.