Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"Torch Of Liberty" by Thomas Moore is a compelling allegorical poem that illustrates the passage of liberty from one nation to another. This poem draws a vivid picture of a symbolic torch race, inspired by the torch races held in ancient Greece. In this race, the torch symbolizes the 'flame' or the concept of liberty. The flame is passed from one nation to another, much like the idea of liberty has historically been shared and spread from one nation to another.

The poem begins with a vision, given by the personification of Fancy (imagination), of nations standing in anticipation to receive the torch. Their joy as the torch approaches is immense. The first recipient of the flame is Albion, an ancient term for Great Britain. The poem suggests that Britain already has the flame (liberty), and from there, it is passed to Columbia, a historical and poetic name for America. The poet indicates that America receives a steady flame from Britain, reminiscent of the historical reality where many principles of liberty were adopted from Britain by America.

Next, the torch is passed to Gallia, the ancient Roman name for France. France's handling of the flame is presented as wild and vigorous, nearly setting the world on fire. The flame is so intense that even Britain recoils from its glare. This could be a reflection of the French Revolution, which was seen by some as an intense and violent explosion of liberty.

Spain receives the flame next, but it gets extinguished quickly. However, it rekindles, suggesting the temporary setbacks in Spain's struggle for liberty. Next, the torch is passed to Naples, which fails to handle it and drops it, indicating a failure in upholding the principles of liberty.

Finally, Greece, despite the torch being dropped and stained, picks it up and waves it proudly. This revival might be an allusion to Greece's fight for independence in the 19th century. The poem concludes with spirits of the laurel (a symbol of victory and honor) blessing the flame, urging it to shine forever and return when lost.

Overall, the poem provides a picturesque and metaphorical representation of the passage of liberty across different nations. The torch in the poem stands for the idea of liberty, and the nations' reactions to the torch symbolize their historical engagement with the principles of liberty.

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