“The Burning Babe” is a 16-line poem written in 1595 by Robert Southwell, an English Jesuit priest, and martyr who would later by ordained a saint. The poem depicts the speaker encountering a baby Jesus surrounded by flames, symbolizing his fiery love and the suffering he endures for humanity. The baby explains that the fire represents his love, which is fueled by human sins and imperfections, and that his tears are shed for the salvation of humanity. The poem concludes with the speaker realizing it is Christmas Day, highlighting the connection between the Incarnation and the promise of redemption. In essence, “The Burning Babe” is a powerful and unique Christmas poem which explores the themes of love, suffering, redemption, and the transformative power of faith.
