Isaac Watts Remembered 1674-1748

by David G. Fountain

Author of over 600 hymns, Isaac Watts became the father of the English Hymn. His life, though filled with trials, was a testimony to the grace and goodness of God. This book is a fascinating study of a Christian who, through his hymns, powerfully shaped the way English-speaking Christians worship God today.

112 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[David Dunlap · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fairly good overview of the life and work of Isaac Watts, written in part of the commemoration of the tricentennial of Watts's birth. The author is particularly good at setting Watts in his historical environment (for example, his discussion of the rising persecution of Nonconformists during the latter years of Queen Anne's reign help the reader understand that line from Watts's hymn "O God, our help in ages past": "Be thou our guard while troubles last..."). One drawback is a lack of clarity in use of quotations (although this might be more a problem with the typeface than with the writing per se). There are a number of line drawings sprinkled throughout the text that are a delightful addition. In Appendices, we are provided with some examples of Watts's writing, including some 20 of his hymn/poems. Could be considered a good source for the reader wanting an introduction to Watts and his times.