Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Song of the Western Men" is a poem by Robert Stephen Hawker, an English poet, Anglican priest, and antiquarian who lived from 1803 to 1875. The poem was first published in 1825 and became popular as a Cornish nationalist anthem. Hawker is known for his love of Cornwall and his poems often draw upon Cornish folklore, mythology, and history. He was also a prolific writer and his works include collections of ballads, religious poems, and tales of the sea.

Context:

"The Song of the Western Men" was written during a period of political and social upheaval in Cornwall. In the early 19th century, there was growing discontent among the Cornish people over their treatment by the English government and the Church of England. Many felt that Cornwall was being exploited for its natural resources, such as tin and copper, and that its culture and language were being eroded. The poem reflects this sense of frustration and resistance, as it celebrates the Cornish people and their determination to defend their land and way of life.

Content:

The poem consists of six stanzas, each with four lines. It is written in a simple, repetitive style, with a chorus that is repeated after each verse. The poem tells the story of a group of Cornishmen who gather together to defend their land against invading forces. The men are depicted as brave and determined, willing to fight to the death to protect their families and homes. The poem celebrates their strength, courage, and loyalty to one another and to their country.

Form:

The poem has a simple, ballad-like structure with a regular rhyme scheme (ABCB). The use of repetition and the chorus give the poem a musical quality and make it easy to remember and recite. The poem's simple structure and style are typical of Hawker's work, which often drew upon traditional ballads and folk songs.

Poetic Elements:

The poem makes use of several poetic devices, including alliteration, repetition, and imagery. The repeated use of the phrase "And shall Trelawny die?" emphasizes the importance of the Cornish cause and the need for resistance. The imagery of the "golden furze" and "the silver sea" evokes the natural beauty of Cornwall and its importance to the Cornish people. The use of alliteration in phrases such as "heart of oak" and "well for Cornwall" adds to the poem's musical quality and helps to create a sense of unity and strength.

Summary:

"The Song of the Western Men" is a powerful poem that celebrates the resilience and determination of the Cornish people. It reflects the political and cultural tensions of its time, as well as Hawker's own love for Cornwall and its traditions. The poem's simple structure and repetitive style make it easy to remember and recite, adding to its power as a rallying cry for Cornish pride and identity. Overall, the poem is a powerful example of the use of poetry to express cultural and political resistance, and it remains a beloved piece of Cornish literature today.

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