Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"History" is a poem by John Drinkwater, an English poet and playwright who lived from 1882 to 1937. The poem was published in 1922 and reflects on the enduring power of history and its importance in shaping human understanding and perspective.

Context:

The poem was written in the aftermath of World War I, a time when many people were struggling to make sense of the war's devastation and the profound changes it brought about. The poem can be seen as a reflection on the importance of history in helping people make sense of their experiences and navigate a rapidly changing world.

Content:

"History" is a reflective poem that explores the importance of history in shaping human understanding and perspective. The speaker reflects on the many different events and people that have shaped the course of history, from the rise and fall of great empires to the individual lives of ordinary people. The poem also reflects on the many different ways in which history is remembered and interpreted, and the enduring power of history to shape our perceptions of the world.

Form:

The poem is written in free verse, with no consistent rhyme scheme or meter. The lack of formal structure reflects the idea that history is vast and complex, and cannot be contained within the confines of a rigid structure. The poem is also notable for its use of vivid imagery and metaphor, which help to convey the speaker's message of the enduring power and importance of history.

Poetic Elements:

Drinkwater makes use of a variety of poetic devices in "History," including imagery, metaphor, and repetition. The poem is filled with vivid descriptions of historical events and figures, including images of battles, empires, and the lives of ordinary people. The repetition of the phrase "history is" throughout the poem helps to underscore the importance of history in shaping human understanding and perspective.

Summary:

"History" is a powerful and reflective poem that explores the enduring power and importance of history in shaping human understanding and perspective. Drinkwater's use of language and imagery is particularly effective in conveying the vastness and complexity of history, while also underscoring the importance of remembering and interpreting history in a way that reflects the experiences and perspectives of all people. Overall, "History" is a beautifully written poem that speaks to the universal experiences of human struggle and the enduring power of history to shape our perceptions of the world

Discover our Poem Explanations and Poet Analyses!

Other Poems of Interest...