“Crossing the Bar” by Alfred Lord Tennyson is a deeply moving poem often chosen for funerals due to its serene meditation on the passage from life to death. With its gentle maritime imagery, the poem envisions death as a peaceful voyage—a crossing from one shore to another. Tennyson’s words remind us that death is not an end, but the start of a new journey.
Crossing the Bar Words in Full
Sunset and evening star,
And one clear call for me!
And may there be no moaning of the bar,
When I put out to sea,But such a tide as moving seems asleep,
Too full for sound and foam,
When that which drew from out the boundless deep
Turns again home.Twilight and evening bell,
And after that the dark!
And may there be no sadness of farewell,
When I embark;For though from out our bourne of Time and Place
The flood may bear me far,
I hope to see my Pilot face to face
When I have crost the bar.
A Peaceful Metaphor for Death
Tennyson uses the metaphor of crossing a sandbar—a shallow stretch of sea that separates the shore from the open ocean—as a representation of moving from life into the afterlife. The “bar” is a symbol for the threshold between the physical and spiritual worlds. The speaker, Tennyson himself, asks for no sorrow or fear as he embarks on this final journey, hoping that the crossing will be smooth and calm, much like the gentle tide he describes in the poem.
The line, “And may there be no sadness of farewell, when I embark,” is particularly poignant, encouraging loved ones to view death not with grief, but with a sense of peace. It is a reminder that death is a natural and inevitable part of life—a transition rather than a loss.
Why Families Choose This Poem
“Crossing the Bar” resonates with many because of its serene acceptance of death and its hopeful message of seeing the “Pilot” face to face, a metaphor for meeting God or a divine guide. The poem reflects on the inevitability of death without fear, portraying it as a peaceful homecoming rather than something to dread. This makes it an ideal choice for families who wish to convey a sense of peace and hope during their loved one’s funeral or memorial service.
The hopeful tone of the poem also helps those left behind find comfort in the idea that their loved one is now in a place of peace and eternal rest. Its message is one of reassurance—that death, like the sea, is vast and mysterious, but not to be feared.
How to Use “Crossing the Bar” in Funeral Services
This poem works beautifully as a reading during a funeral or memorial service, offering solace to all in attendance. Its gentle, flowing rhythm and maritime imagery make it suitable for a reflective moment, inviting listeners to embrace the idea of death as a peaceful journey rather than an abrupt ending. It can be read by a family member or friend or included in memorial programs to honor the life of the deceased with grace and calm.
Many families also find that the poem’s vivid imagery makes it a powerful addition to a eulogy, allowing them to reflect on the passing of their loved one with a sense of peace and continuity. The notion of meeting the “Pilot” provides a comforting spiritual dimension, particularly for those with religious or spiritual beliefs.
“Crossing the Bar” by Alfred Lord Tennyson offers a tranquil and hopeful view of death as a natural, peaceful journey. Its imagery of setting sail into the unknown reminds us that, though death may seem distant and mysterious, it is ultimately a return home.
If you would like to discuss incorporating “Crossing the Bar” or another meaningful funeral poem into your loved one’s service, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to offer our support and guidance during this difficult time. We also invite you to explore our extensive collection of popular funeral hymns, and funeral readings.
