Man that is born of woman

Song Meaning

The lyrics paint a stark, somber picture of human existence, emphasizing its brevity and inherent suffering. The opening lines immediately establish a tone of profound melancholy, describing humanity as "born of a woman" and destined for a "short time to live," a life "full of misery." This sets a foundation of vulnerability, likening people to ephemeral natural elements that are quickly extinguished. The central tension arises from this bleak assessment of life, juxtaposed with a desperate plea for divine intervention. The narrator acknowledges the precariousness of life, stating, "In the midst of life we are in death." This existential dread fuels a direct appeal to "thee, O Lord," seeking succor and deliverance from both earthly suffering and the threat of eternal damnation. The lyrics articulate a profound sense of helplessness against forces beyond human control. A striking aspect of the craft is the repeated invocation of divine titles, shifting from a God "justly displeased" to "O Lord most mighty," "holy and most merciful Saviour," and "most worthy Judge eternal." This progression suggests a complex relationship with the divine, acknowledging judgment while simultaneously appealing to mercy. The imagery of being "cut down like a flower" and fleeing "as it were a shadow" powerfully conveys the fragility and transient nature of human life, reinforcing the urgency of the prayer. Ultimately, the effectiveness of these lyrics lies in their raw, unvarnished portrayal of human frailty and the deep-seated need for salvation. By grounding the plea in the shared experience of mortal suffering and the fear of eternal consequence, the text creates a potent emotional resonance. The direct address to God, filled with both reverence and desperation, captures a fundamental human impulse to seek comfort and protection in the face of overwhelming existential realities.