Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Prayer for a Beginning Reign" is a poem written by John Masefield, the Poet Laureate of the United Kingdom from 1930 until his death in 1967. The poem was first published in 1952 in a collection called "Collected Poems, 1923-1953." It was presented to Queen Elizabeth II upon her coronation. The poem reflects Masefield's deep appreciation for the British monarchy and his hope for a successful reign.

Content:

In "A Prayer for a Beginning Reign," Masefield offers a prayer for the start of Queen Elizabeth's reign. The poem opens with a description of the monarch as a "star," shining bright and steady in the night sky. Masefield asks for the monarch's reign to be one of peace and prosperity, with justice and mercy for all.

The poem then turns to a reflection on the passing of time and the inevitability of change. Masefield notes that the "star" of the monarch's reign will eventually fade and disappear, but that its light will continue to guide future generations. He concludes with a prayer for the monarch's strength and wisdom in the face of challenges, and for the support of the people in the realm.

Form:

"A Prayer for a Beginning Reign" is a poem composed of seven stanzas, each containing six lines. The poem follows a regular ABABCC rhyme scheme, with the second and fourth lines of each stanza rhyming. The poem has a steady and measured rhythm, reflecting Masefield's hope for a stable and prosperous reign.

Poetic Elements:

Masefield uses imagery of stars and the night sky throughout the poem to convey a sense of majesty and grandeur. The use of repetition in the opening stanza, with the phrase "star of the realm" repeated twice, emphasizes the importance of the monarch's reign. The use of metaphor in the final stanza, with the monarch compared to a ship navigating through stormy seas, highlights the challenges that the monarch may face and the importance of wise and strong leadership.

Summary:

"A Prayer for a Beginning Reign" is a powerful and moving poem that reflects Masefield's deep appreciation for the British monarchy and his hope for a successful reign. The poem's use of imagery and metaphor conveys a sense of the majesty and importance of the monarch's role, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with leadership. Overall, the poem is a beautiful and heartfelt prayer for a peaceful and prosperous reign.

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