Edgar Guest was born in America on 20th August 1881, and passed away on the 5th August 1959. His moving poem is one of history’s most well-known funeral poems. It was first published around 1930 in an American newspaper. Guest, an American poet and newspaper columnist works were quite famous in the early 20th century. It is not recorded as to what year he wrote the poem.

The tragic poem “A Child Of Mine” is about a child’s loss and a father’s utter agony. Guest sadly lost two of his children. The poem considers his love for his child, even in the face of death. Even though his child will never return, he admits that no matter how much time passes, he will never forget them.

A Child of Mine

Over the years, the poem has remained a regular part of numerous funerals, and most people consider it a source of consolation at difficult times. It’s a moving lesson for people experiencing the loss of a loved one and is a timeless reminder of a parent’s love for their kids. It highlights the idea that while death is unavoidable, love endures forever.

For more poem inspiration visit the Save Funeral Costs blog of funeral poems.