This edition was prepared by James Gibb — free to download, print, rehearse and perform.
I know not if, or dark or bright
Staff Notation • Sacred, Hymns
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I know not if, or dark or bright by Joseph Barnby — Lyrics
I know not if or dark or bright
Shall be my lot;
If that wherein my hopes delight
Be best or not.
Dear faces may surround my health
With smiles and glee,
Or I may dwell alone, and mirth
Be strange to me.
My bark is wafted to the strand
By breath divine,
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About I know not if, or dark or bright
Joseph Barnby's setting of I know not if, or dark or bright is a sacred hymn for SATB choir, sung in English. The text explores themes of faith and trust in the face of uncertainty about the future, both in worldly matters and in one's ultimate spiritual destination. The hymn's verses move from a contemplation of personal circumstances, whether surrounded by loved ones or alone, to a profound reliance on divine guidance. It speaks of a 'breath divine' wafting the soul's 'bark' to its safe harbour, finding solace in the presence of the Lord above the storms of life, and anticipating a final journey 'far into bliss' with Him. The music provides a devotional setting for these hopeful and reassuring words.
