Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

 "Evening on Calais Beach" is a sonnet written by William Wordsworth in 1802 during his travels to France with his sister Dorothy. The poem is part of a larger sequence of sonnets, often referred to as the "Calais Sonnets," that Wordsworth wrote during this trip. The sonnets were written in response to the political turmoil of the time, including the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars.

Content: 

In "Evening on Calais Beach," Wordsworth describes a scene of quiet serenity as he walks along the beach at sunset. The speaker reflects on the beauty of the moment and the peacefulness that he feels. He observes the calmness of the sea and the distant sounds of people going about their lives. The speaker seems to be in a state of contemplation, both of the natural world and of his own inner thoughts.

Form: 

"Evening on Calais Beach" is a sonnet written in iambic pentameter. It follows the traditional form of a Petrarchan sonnet, with an octave and a sestet. The poem has a rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA CDCDCD. The use of traditional sonnet form reflects Wordsworth's interest in classical poetry and his desire to explore themes of love and nature within this established framework.

Summary:

 "Evening on Calais Beach" is a beautiful and meditative poem that showcases Wordsworth's skill in crafting sonnets. The poem is notable for its peaceful and contemplative tone, which is unusual for Wordsworth's political and socially engaged writing. The poem is also notable for its exploration of the natural world and the beauty that can be found in even the most ordinary moments. The use of traditional sonnet form adds to the poem's beauty and gives it a timeless quality that still resonates with readers today.

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