There is no end to the work of salvage
In the drowning high seas of Christmas
When loneliness, in the name of Christ
(That longing!), attacks the world.

Sarton figures Christmas not as uncomplicated comfort but as a turbulent season that can intensify isolation. The “work of salvage” suggests emergency labor—rescuing what can be saved in oneself and others when the holiday’s social and religious expectations (“in the name of Christ”) heighten feelings of exclusion or unmet desire (“That longing!”). The image of “drowning high seas” implies that the cultural tide of celebration can overwhelm the lonely, making care, attention, and small acts of human rescue necessary and ongoing. The lines critique sentimental piety while still acknowledging the genuine spiritual yearning that Christmas can awaken.