This fanciful retelling of the story of the nativity was originally published in 1915, during the first World War. The times surely influenced this re-writing of the biblical story. Mary’s rejection of the kings’ gifts of worldly wisdom, might of arms, and wealth made from the enslavement of the poor were certainly meant as a social commentary on the time (no less poignant today). Mary’s particularly harsh rebuke of the King of the North certainly speaks an anti-war sentiment. Also noteworthy is her repetition of the thought that it is Love which encompasses all true knowledge. more »