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The Ballad of Father Gilligan by W.B. Yeats — Cheat Sheet

📘 1. Poem Overview

  • Title: The Ballad of Father Gilligan

  • Poet: W.B. Yeats

  • Published: 1919

  • Tone: Gentle, caring, hopeful

  • Theme: Faith, compassion, human weakness, divine help

The poem tells the story of an old, tired priest who is helped by an angel to care for his parishioners when he can’t manage on his own.

📝 2. Structure

  • 7 stanzas

  • Each stanza has 4 lines (quatrains)

  • Rhyme scheme: ABCB

  • Rhythm is steady and musical

The ballad style suits the storytelling and gentle mood.

✏️ 3. Simple Summary

Father Gilligan is exhausted but must visit a sick man. He prays for help and falls asleep. An angel visits the sick man instead, and the man recovers. Father Gilligan wakes up to find his prayers answered — showing faith and kindness at work.

🎯 4. Main Themes

🙏 a. Faith & Divine Help

God helps those who serve others faithfully.

🕯️ b. Compassion & Duty

The priest works hard to care for his people despite his tiredness.

🧍‍♂️ c. Human Weakness

Even the devoted need rest and support.

🔍 5. Key Lines

“His head was bent above the deepening gloom”
➡️ Shows Father Gilligan’s tiredness and care.

“But God, in mercy sent an angel down”
➡️ Divine help arrives when needed most.

“And an angel tread the floor”
➡️ The angel secretly helps the sick man.

📚 6. Literary Devices

Device Example Effect
Imagery “His head was bent above the deepening gloom” Creates a tired, serious mood
Symbolism “The old priest” Represents dedication and human limits
Repetition “Father Gilligan, father Gilligan” Emphasizes urgency and care
Rhyme Scheme ABCB Gives the poem a smooth, musical flow
Tone Gentle, caring, hopeful Evokes compassion and faith

🧠 7. Tone & Mood

  • Tone: Kind, gentle, hopeful

  • Mood: Comforting, peaceful, reassuring

The poem feels like a warm story of faith and help.

🧩 8. Sample Questions

  • Why is Father Gilligan so tired?

  • How does the angel’s help change the story?

  • What message does the poem give about faith?

  • How does the rhyme scheme affect the reading?

🎓 9. Why This Poem Matters

  • It tells a story about faith in hard times.

  • Shows how human effort and divine help work together.

  • Encourages kindness and caring for others.

🌟 Final Message

“Even when you’re exhausted, faith and compassion can bring unexpected help.”

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