-Cardinal Newman
Introduction
In this hymn, ‘Lead, Kindly Light!' Cardinal Newman appeals to God to show him light, and guide him in the right direction.
Newman's appeal to God .
The poet pleads to God to reveal his kindly light so that he could come out of the present darkness, that is his despair in life. The poet discloses to God that he has left his home (a reference to Heaven or Roman Catholic Church). Only God could help him in finding his way back home. The poet now needs God's support and enlightenment. To step into the unknown future the divine light is essential.
The poet's past and the present :
The poet confesses his present crucial condition to God and seeks his help to come out from it. He has not prayed to Him and sought His help before.
