William Cowper’s Mother

William Cowper (pronounced as Cooper) was born in 1731. He was a close friend of John Newton (Amazing Grace), and lived next door. Cowper was considered by many to be the greatest literary figure in England during in his lifetime. Like Newton, he was a poet (God Moves in a Mysterious Way; There is a Fountain Filled with Blood). William lost his mother at six years of age. After her death it appears that he did not live at home again except for one 9 month period when he was 18 years of age. So, in essence, he lost both mother and father.

He loved his mother dearly, and her love to him made an indelible impression. His cousin, Mrs. Bodham, sent him a portrait of his mother fifty years after she had died. Here is what he wrote of her:

“I received it the night before last, and viewed it with trepidation of nerves and spirits somewhat akin to what I should have felt had the dear original presented herself to my embraces. I kissed it, and hung it where it is the last object that I see at night, and, of course, the first on which I open my eyes in the morning.”

Never diminish the importance of those first impressions on your children. Tasks must be done and there is example in that. But the impressions of love and interest and care will press a mark on the child’s heart. There have been many otherwise incorrigible sinners who could not escape the love of a godly mother.