My New-Cut Ashlar (Poem by Rudyard Kipling)

My New-Cut Ashlar

By Rudyard Kipling

My new-cut ashlar takes the light

Where crimson-blank the windows flare.

By my own work before the night,

Great Overseer, I make my prayer.

If there be good in that I wrought,

Thy Hand compelled it, Master, Thine — 

Where I have failed to meet Thy Thought

I know, through Thee, the blame was mine.

One instant's toil to Thee denied

Stands all Eternity's offence.

Of that I did with Thee to guide

To Thee, through Thee, be excellence.

The depth and dream of my desire,

The bitter paths wherein I stray — 

Thou knowest Who hath made the Fire,

Thou knowest Who hast made the Clay.

Who, lest all thought of Eden fade,

Bring'st Eden to the craftsman's brain — 

Godlike to muse o'er his own Trade

And manlike stand with God again!

One stone the more swings into place

In that dread Temple of Thy worth.

It is enough that, through Thy Grace,

I saw nought common on Thy Earth.

Take not that vision from my ken — 

Oh whatsoe'er may spoil or speed.

Help me to need no aid from men

That I may help such men as need!

Poem Analysis:

Rudyard Kipling's poem "My New-Cut Ashlar" delves into the themes of craftsmanship, divine inspiration, and the pursuit of excellence. Through the metaphor of stonecutting, Kipling explores the relationship between human effort and divine guidance. Let's unravel the layers of meaning in this profound piece:

Craftsmanship as Prayer: The poem opens with the speaker admiring his newly cut ashlar (a stone block) in the light of the crimson-flaring windows. This imagery sets the scene of a craftsman reflecting on his work in a sacred space. The act of shaping the stone becomes a form of prayer, as the speaker appeals to the "Great Overseer" for guidance and approval.

Divine Guidance and Responsibility: The speaker acknowledges that any goodness in his work is ultimately inspired and guided by a higher power. He accepts responsibility for his failures, recognizing that if he falls short of perfection, the fault lies with him. This reflects a humility and recognition of the divine hand at work in human endeavors.

Eternal Significance of Work: The poem emphasizes the eternal significance of even the smallest act of labor. The speaker acknowledges that a single moment of neglect or failure to fulfill one's duty can have repercussions throughout eternity. This highlights the seriousness with which the craftsman approaches his work and the need for diligence and attention to detail.

Desire for Excellence: The speaker expresses a deep longing for excellence in his craftsmanship, acknowledging the depth of his desire and the challenges he faces. He sees his work as a reflection of his innermost thoughts and aspirations, seeking to align himself with divine standards of perfection.

Acknowledgment of Divine Creation: Kipling brings attention to the divine origin of both the craftsman's skill and the materials he works with. The speaker marvels at the creative power of God, who has endowed humanity with the ability to shape the world around them. This recognition of God's role in creation underscores the interconnectedness of all things.

The Craftsmanship as Redemption: Craftsmanship becomes a means of redemption for the speaker, allowing him to reconnect with his divine purpose and stand "with God again." Through the act of creation, the craftsman transcends the mundane and touches the divine, finding fulfillment in his labor and communion with the divine Creator.

Call for Self-Sufficiency and Generosity: The poem concludes with a plea for self-sufficiency and a desire to help others in need. The speaker seeks independence from worldly aid so that he may be better positioned to assist those who require assistance. This reflects a sense of responsibility and altruism that extends beyond the individual craftsman to the wider community.

In conclusion, "My New-Cut Ashlar" by Rudyard Kipling is a profound exploration of craftsmanship, divine inspiration, and the pursuit of excellence. Through rich imagery and deep reflection, Kipling invites readers to contemplate the role of human endeavor in the grand tapestry of creation, recognizing the divine hand at work in every act of labor.