Forsaken

by Matthew Arnold — a poem card from Justes Mots

A mother pledges undying devotion to her child while wrestling with betrayal by the child's father, using the child's innocence as redemption from a sinful world. The poem balances tender maternal love with the sorrow of broken trust, moving toward a vow of eternal faithfulness. Suitable for mothers facing heartbreak or seeking to express unconditional parental bond despite personal suffering.

Something the heart must have to cherish,
Must love and joy and sorrow learn,
Something with passion clasp or perish,
And in itself to ashes burn.

So to this child my heart is clinging,
And its frank eyes, with look intense,
Me from a world of sin are bringing…

Themes: love · new-baby · wedding · friendship