Henry Van Dyke

Henry Van Dyke

About Henry Van Dyke

Henry van Dyke was an American author born on November 10, 1852, in Germantown, Pennsylvania. His first career was as a pastor, the position he held for close to twenty years. His father was also a clergyman. Henry van Dyke was regarded as one of the best preachers in New York City. After preaching, he became an English professor at Princeton.

Henry van Dyke wrote the lyrics to the hymn “Joyful, Joyful We Adore Thee” in 1907, and he also wrote some Christmas stories.

He added a couple of verses to “My Country, ‘Tis of Thee,” written by Samuel Francis Smith in 1831. It was originally considered the national anthem until 1931, when it was replaced by “The Star-Spangled Banner.”

Henry van Dyke was a friend of Helen Keller, and he helped officiate the funeral of Mark Twain.

Henry van Dyke passed away on April 10, 1933.

    Poems by Henry Van Dyke

  • Life

    Famous Poem

    in Famous Poems

    Let me but live my life from year to year,
    With forward face and unreluctant soul;
    Not hurrying to, nor turning from the goal;
    Not mourning for the things that disappear

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    • Rating 4.14
  • Work

    Famous Poem

    in Famous Sad Poems

    Let me but do my work from day to day,
    In field or forest, at the desk or loom,
    In roaring market-place or tranquil room;
    Let me but find it in my heart to say,

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    • Rating 4.41
  • Time Is

    Famous Poem

    in Famous Inspirational Poems

    Time is
    Too Slow for those who Wait,
    Too Swift for those who Fear,
    Too Long for those who Grieve,

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    • Votes 65
    • Rating 4.43


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