Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"A Ballad of Sarsfield; or, The Bursting of the Guns" is a poem written by Aubrey Thomas de Vere, an Irish poet born in 1814 and passed away in 1902. He was known for his patriotic and historical poems, often drawing inspiration from Irish history and culture. The poem refers to the Williamite War in Ireland, specifically the Battle of the Boyne, which took place on July 1, 1690. The conflict was fought between the forces of King James II, supported by Irish Catholic troops, and the forces of William III of England (also known as William of Orange), supported by Protestant troops.

The poem begins with Sarsfield riding out to confront the Dutch forces. It mentions his dedication to his faith by attending Mass before crossing the Shannon River. Meanwhile, Tyrconnel, another Irish leader, is depicted as dreaming of past victories and the chieftains of Thomond sleeping peacefully in Limerick.

Sarsfield rides for ten miles, crosses a ford, and takes position in a wooded area, waiting for the Dutch army to march into sight. When they do, Sarsfield gives the command to charge, and the green hillside echoes with thunderous replies as his forces engage the enemy. They ride over the plain and overwhelm the opposing forces, causing them to scatter in defeat.

Sarsfield, motivated by loyalty to his king rather than personal gain, burns the possessions that the enemy treasures. The poem describes the process of loading the cannons with gunpowder and then burying them in the earth to create an explosive trap. When the cannons are fired, it is as if a nation's shout is heard, and the sound ascends to heaven. The thunderous noise of the exploding cannons is met with a response from the hosts of the sky, symbolizing divine approval and victory.

The final stanza emphasizes Sarsfield's enduring legacy. A century after his heroic actions, his laughter is echoed from Dungannon, a reference to the continued remembrance and admiration of his bravery.

de Vere pays tribute to Patrick Sarsfield, a prominent Irish Jacobite leader who fought against the Williamite forces during the Williamite War. The poem highlights Sarsfield's bravery, military tactics, and dedication to the cause. It captures the spirit of the battle and the triumph of the Irish forces, with the bursting of the enemy's cannons symbolizing their ultimate victory.

The poem utilizes a ballad structure, employing a narrative form with regular rhythm and rhyme. It creates a sense of action and excitement through concise language and vivid imagery. The repetition of certain phrases, such as "To Mass went he at half-past three" and "Sarsfield rode out the Dutch to rout," adds to the ballad's musical quality and reinforces the central theme of triumph over adversity.

In conclusion, "A Ballad of Sarsfield; or, The Bursting of the Guns" celebrates the heroic actions of Sarsfield during a battle against the Dutch forces. The poem showcases his bravery, strategic prowess, and unwavering loyalty to his king. Through its rhythmic structure and evocative language, the poem captures the excitement of the battle and the enduring legacy of Sarsfield's triumph.