Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained | ||||||||
"The Truly Great" is a poem by British poet Stephen Spender, first published in 1928. Explanation: The poem is written in tribute to the British politician and statesman Winston Churchill, who at the time was serving as Chancellor of the Exchequer. Spender reflects on Churchill's accomplishments and impact on British society, likening him to historical figures such as Julius Caesar and Alexander the Great. The speaker marvels at Churchill's ability to inspire the masses, but also acknowledges the inevitable passing of time and the transience of greatness. 7 Poetic Elements:
Rhyme Scheme and Structure: "The Truly Great" is a three-stanza poem with a regular ABAB rhyme scheme. The poem is written in iambic pentameter, with ten syllables per line. The first two stanzas consist of eight lines each, while the final stanza is a quatrain. Conclusion: Overall, "The Truly Great" is a tribute to Winston Churchill and his impact on British society. Spender acknowledges the transience of greatness and the passage of time, but also celebrates the achievements of those who have left their mark on history. Poem Snippet: Born of the sun, he travelled a short while towards the sun, And left the vivid air signed with his honour Copyright (c) 2024 PoetryExplorer | Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!Other Poems of Interest...THE EPIC STARS by ROBINSON JEFFERS THE CONFESSION OF ST. JIM-RALPH by DENIS JOHNSON NOTES FOR AN ELEGY by WILLIAM MEREDITH THE EROTICS OF HISTORY by EAVAN BOLAND A SONG FOR HEROES by EDWIN MARKHAM AFTER THE BROKEN ARM by RON PADGETT PRELUDE; FOR GEOFFREY GORER by EDITH SITWELL EXAMINATION OF THE HERO IN A TIME OF WAR by WALLACE STEVENS THE WARDEN OF THE CINQUE PORTS (THE DUKE OF WELLINGTON) by HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW |
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