Sir John Davis - The Dignity of Man

Song Meaning

The lyrics grapple with the profound, almost unbelievable, status of humanity in the eyes of its creator. The opening lines pose a direct, awestruck question: why does the "great Maker" bestow such "great respect" upon Man? It's a contemplation of inherent worth, suggesting Man is adorned with a "bright mind" and elevated to the status of a "king," even an "angel's peer." The central tension lies in the contrast between Man's divine endowment and his mortal form. The narrator marvels at the "lively life," "heauenly power," and "sparkling fire" inspired within "dying flesh." This paradox highlights a rich, internal richness that seems almost too great for a finite existence, a "plentifull, rich dower" that transcends physical limitations. The most striking aspect is the assertion that God's "whole image" is uniquely imprinted on Man, unlike any other creation. This elevates humanity to a singular divine reflection, a creature so "diuine" that only infinity could make it more so. The final stanza introduces a further layer of mystery: God's own incarnation as a man, a "Misterie" that even angels "admire" and are "astonisht" by. This lyrical exploration is effective because it taps into a deep sense of wonder about human potential and divine connection. By framing Man as a direct, unparalleled imprint of the divine, the lyrics create a powerful sense of intrinsic value and awe, making the listener ponder their own elevated, if mysterious, place in the cosmos.