(Listen to choir recording here…with lyrics)
haunting winter hymn
lo, how a rose e’er blooming
flute plays minor key
photo copyright: kanzensakura (used with permission)
This traditional Christmas carol sings a haunting melody, particularly when breathed through a flute. The flowing hymn hearkens back to Cologne, Germany in the 16th century during an evening snowfall. A high Renaissance tune which switches from solemnity to dance-like quality and back again, in half-frozen syncopation.
Originally sung in adoration of the virgin’s purity, Lutherans (ever reforming!) later tweaked the words to change its focus to Jesus Christ. As the hope of Israel, he fulfills the prophecies of Isaiah, appearing as the Branch, a stem from Jesse’s root, and the Rose of Sharon.
A rose in winter…totally unexpected and glorious!
Thanks to Toni for hosting the haibun prompt at dVerse and sharing the lovely photo of her mature quince tree blooming prematurely.
a poem in my pocket 
Jan 12, 2016 @ 08:32:49
Indeed an instructive haibun. Your love for the subject matter is clear.
Jan 12, 2016 @ 07:00:47
This exemplifies the ever-present but subtle hope for humanity
Jan 12, 2016 @ 07:44:30
Yes…always hope! Thank you.
Jan 12, 2016 @ 08:00:59
You’re welcome!
Jan 12, 2016 @ 06:59:11
A lovely haiku of the blooming flower and the prose of the Christmas carol ~ A terrific haibun filled with music Lynn ~
Jan 12, 2016 @ 07:45:16
Thank you, Grace.
Jan 12, 2016 @ 06:49:19
I like where your mind went with this! Lovely interpretation.
Jan 12, 2016 @ 07:46:01
I appreciate your comment, Mary 🙂
Jan 12, 2016 @ 05:31:36
Not only did I enjoy the read but I learned something. 🙂
Jan 12, 2016 @ 07:46:32
I’m glad 🙂
Jan 12, 2016 @ 03:33:17
Oh yes.. I think I know the hymn… it’s one of the most beloved Christmas songs here in Sweden… Det är en ros utsprungen… (very close to the German version)…
Jan 12, 2016 @ 02:00:59
What a wonderful association – that flute in minor key introduces a note of yearning and chill…
Jan 12, 2016 @ 00:47:41
LiGht
of sun
IsRaEL
iS God’s
BriGht LiGht…
SonG of
pInk..
Love.. kiNd..:)
Jan 11, 2016 @ 21:58:00
What a beautiful write, Lynn, starting with that superb haiku.
Jan 11, 2016 @ 21:59:14
Thank you, Gayle 🙂
Jan 11, 2016 @ 21:14:00
Wonderful Lynn. This is so fitting and reverent, joyful and beautiful. Thank you for your interpretation of this.
Jan 11, 2016 @ 21:21:50
I’m glad you like it…my mind immediately went to this hymn when seeing your photo!