36. Softly now the light of day
George Washington Doane, 1799-1859
An American hymn characterized by simplicity and grace, and sung the world over wherever the English language is spoken. It appeared in 1824 in a collection of poems, Songs by the Way, with the heading “Evening.” It is based on Psalm 141:2, “Let my prayer be set forth before Thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands as the evening sacrifice.”
George Washington Doane was born in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1799, the year that the “Father of our Country” died; hence his name. He was educated at Union College, Schenectady, New York, and ordained, at the age of 22, in the Episcopal Church. At the early age of 33 he was made bishop of New Jersey. A pioneer in education, and ahead of his time in many things, his life was full of trials. But his exceptional talents, learning and force of character made him one of the great church leaders of his time.
MUSIC. SEYMOUR is by the eminent German composer of opera, Carl M. von Weber, 1786-1826. This tune, a great favorite, is from the opening chorus of his opera, Oberon, which is sung while fairies “trip it lightly” on the stage. When contributions towards the musical edition of the famous English book, Hymns Ancient and Modern, London, 1861, were invited by advertisement, the editor, W. H. Monk, received more requests for the insertion of this tune than any other, despite its secular origin.