Poems on Serious and Sacred Subjects Printed only as Private Tokens of Regard, for the Particular Friends of the Author

"Poems on Serious and Sacred Subjects" by William Hayley is a collection of reflective verses from the late 1700s and early 1800s that explore themes of faith, death, and human connection. With a thoughtful and often somber voice, the poet contemplates the meaning of life, mortality, and finding comfort in divine love. Christian beliefs are a central focus, with poems speaking to the importance of virtues like humility and charity, as well as the strength found in friendship. Poems such as "On the Fear of Death" consider the anxieties surrounding the end of life, suggesting that faith can ease these fears. The collection encourages readers to think deeply about their own spirituality and the enduring power of love and friendship.