Joseph Swain (poet)

Joseph Swain (1761-1796) was an English Baptist minister and hymn writer. Born in Birmingham, he initially worked as a graver and engraver. He experienced a profound religious conversion at the age of 15, which led him to join the Baptist church in Wild Street, London. In 1791, he became the pastor of East Street Baptist Church, Walworth, London, a position he held until his death.

Swain is best known for his hymns, many of which reflect his personal experiences of faith, suffering, and hope. He published a collection of his hymns titled "Walworth Hymns" (1792), later revised and enlarged as "Experimental Essays on Divine Subjects, in Three Parts" (1796). Several of his hymns, such as "How sweet the name of Jesus sounds," "When I can read my title clear," and "O Thou, in whose presence my soul takes delight," remain popular and are included in various hymnbooks today. He also wrote poetry beyond hymns, dealing with themes of nature, friendship, and mortality, showcasing a broader literary sensibility. Swain's works are characterised by their simplicity, sincerity, and devotional fervor, reflecting his deep faith and his pastoral concern for his congregation.