Backward Mutters

  • O Key of David

    This is the fourth in a series of sonnets based on the Great O Antiphons. This sonnet is based on the Antiphon, “O Key of David” which reads, “O Key of David and sceptre of the House of Israel; you open and no one can shut; you shut and no…

  • O Root of Jesse

    The third antiphon of the Great O Antiphons reads: “O Root of Jesse, standing as a sign among the peoples; before you kings will shut their mouths, to you the nations will make their prayer: Come and deliver us, and delay no longer.” The sonnet is based on Isaiah 11:1,…

  • O Lord (O Adonai)

    The second of the Great O Antiphons of Advent. “O Adonai, and leader of the House of Israel, who appeared to Moses in the fire of the burning bush and gave him the law on Sinai: Come and redeem us with an outstretched arm. Based on: Based on Exodus 6:6…

  • O Wisdom II

    “O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, reaching from one end to the other mightily, and sweetly ordering all things: Come and teach us the way of prudence.” James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God, who gives generously to all without…

  • O Wisdom

    From the Great O Antiphon: “O Sapientia” “O Wisdom, coming forth from the mouth of the Most High, reaching from one end to the other mightily, and sweetly ordering all things: Come and teach us the way of prudence.” Isaiah 11:2-4a 2 And the Spirit of the LORD shall rest…