Through her poetry, Christina emphasizes the idea that the upward progression of the soul is not an easy process. Distractions and doubts can weigh a person down and can lead them to struggle. “Up-Hill” symbolizes the journey that she takes. Instead of taking a straight road, it is ‘winding’ and ‘uphill’ which suggests that the path is long and difficult. During times of uncertainty, it is good to turn to this poem as a reminder that at the end of the road, there is a “roof”, in other words a “safe base”.

Does the road wind up-hill all the way?
Yes, to the very end.
Will the day’s journey take the whole long day?
From morn to night, my friend.
But is there for the night a resting-place?
A roof for when the slow dark hours begin.
May not the darkness hide it from my face?
You cannot miss that inn.
Shall I meet other wayfarers at night?
Those who have gone before.
Then must I knock, or call when just in sight?
They will not keep you standing at that door.
Shall I find comfort, travel-sore and weak?
Of labour you shall find the sum.
Will there be beds for me and all who seek?
Yea, beds for all who come.

Image Credits:
Feature Image: Holden Baxter, on Unsplash, Creative Commons