James Montgomery
James Montgomery
Full Name and Common Aliases
James Montgomery was a Scottish poet, hymn writer, and newspaper editor who is best known by his pen name, "The Wee Blanket".
Birth and Death Dates
Montgomery was born on October 4, 1771, in Overtown, Lanarkshire, Scotland. He passed away on March 30, 1854.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Scottish
Profession(s): Poet, Hymn Writer, Newspaper Editor
As a prominent figure of his time, Montgomery's work spanned multiple genres, including poetry, hymns, and newspaper journalism. His contributions to the literary world continue to be celebrated for their depth and insight.
Early Life and Background
Montgomery was born into a humble family in rural Scotland. His early life was marked by a love of literature and music, which would later influence his writing style. He began his career as an apprentice to a local printer before moving on to work as a writer and editor for various publications.
Major Accomplishments
Throughout his career, Montgomery achieved numerous milestones that solidified his reputation as a talented poet and hymn writer. Some of his most notable accomplishments include:
Creating over 200 hymns, many of which remain popular in Scotland and beyond
Serving as the editor of the Glasgow Sentinel newspaper from 1808 to 1813
Publishing numerous volumes of poetry, including "The Poetical Remains" (1846)Notable Works or Actions
Montgomery's writing often focused on themes related to Christianity, social justice, and the beauty of nature. Some of his most notable works include:
Hymns such as "O Worship the King" and "Awake, My Soul"
* Poems like "The Wee Blanket" and "The Cottage in Scotland"
Impact and Legacy
Montgomery's influence on Scottish literature is still felt today. His poetry and hymns continue to be celebrated for their heartfelt expression of faith and everyday life.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
James Montgomery is widely quoted or remembered due to the enduring appeal of his words, which speak to fundamental human experiences and emotions. His contributions to Scottish literature have left a lasting impact on the cultural heritage of Scotland and beyond.
Quotes by James Montgomery
Dark-green and gemm’d with flowers of snow, With close uncrowded branches spread Not proudly high, nor meanly low, A graceful myrtle rear’d its head.
Songs of praise the angels sang, Heav’n with alleluias rang, when creation was begun, when God spoke and it was done.
Eagle of flowers! I see thee stand, And on the sun’s noon-glory gaze; With eye like his, thy lids expand, And fringe their disk with golden rays: Though fix’d on earth, in darkness rooted there, Light is thy element, thy dwelling air, Thy prospect heaven.
When evening closes Nature’s eye, The glow-worm lights her little spark To captivate her favorite fly And tempt the rover through the dark.
There is a world above, Where parting is unknown; A whole eternity of love, Form’d for the good alone; And faith beholds the dying here Translated to that happier sphere.
We fought the Revolutionary War for no taxation without representation, it seems to me that we are much worse off today, because we are heavily taxed, and only the king’s corporations control this Country, together with mob rule, of the special interests.