Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Fidelity Rewarded" is a poem written by Dora Greenwell, a British poet and hymn-writer who lived from 1821 to 1882. The poem was published in 1865 and tells the story of a faithful dog who waits for his master to return..

The main theme of "Fidelity Rewarded" is the loyalty and devotion of animals, particularly dogs, to their human companions. The poem also explores the theme of faithfulness, as the dog's loyalty is rewarded in the end. Another theme is the passage of time, as the dog waits patiently for his master to return over the course of many years.

Greenwell's use of language in "Fidelity Rewarded" is notable for its simplicity and directness. The poem is written in rhyming quatrains with a consistent rhyme scheme of ABAB, which creates a sense of harmony and balance. The imagery in the poem is also vivid and evocative, particularly in the descriptions of the dog's actions and emotions. For example, the image of the dog lying down to rest his head on his paws conveys a sense of patient waiting.:

The structure of "Fidelity Rewarded" is characterized by its use of quatrains and consistent rhyme scheme. This creates a sense of continuity and stability throughout the poem. The use of repetition, particularly in the lines "Good dog, good dog, be patient still!" and "Faithful and patient to the end," reinforces the theme of loyalty and devotion. The poem is relatively short, which adds to its simplicity and directness.

Greenwell's style in "Fidelity Rewarded" is characterized by its emphasis on simplicity and emotional resonance. The poem is written in a straightforward and accessible manner, which makes it easy to understand and appreciate. The use of rhyme and repetition helps to create a sense of musicality and emotional impact in the poem, without detracting from its overall message.:

"Fidelity Rewarded" was written during the Victorian era, a time of great social and cultural change in England. During this period, there was a growing interest in the natural world, and a romanticization of the relationship between humans and animals. These themes are reflected in the poem's emphasis on the loyalty and devotion of the dog.

Despite being written over 150 years ago, "Fidelity Rewarded" remains relevant to contemporary readers. The poem's emphasis on the loyalty and devotion of animals is particularly resonant in today's world, where many people consider their pets to be important members of their families. The poem's message that loyalty and faithfulness are virtues to be prized and rewarded is also a powerful reminder of the importance of these qualities in human relationships.

In conclusion, "Fidelity Rewarded" is a poem that celebrates the loyalty and devotion of animals, particularly dogs, to their human companions. Through the story of the faithful dog who waits patiently for his master to return, Greenwell creates a powerful example of the virtues of faithfulness and devotion. The poem's themes, language, structure, and style all contribute to its overall impact and relevance.

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