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KEEP TROTH, by             Poet Analysis     Poet's Biography

"Keep Troth" by Basil Bunting is a compelling poem that serves as an exhortation to uphold values of honesty, loyalty, and integrity throughout one's life. Written in a straightforward and accessible style, it speaks directly to the reader, using the framework of a boy's journey into adulthood as a metaphor for the broader ethical obligations we all carry as individuals within a society.

The poem begins with a reflection on the end of formal education and the conclusion of youth, symbolized by the completion of studies in Algebra and Latin, and the end of a war. These events mark the transition from boyhood to adulthood, a time when one must start to consider their role and responsibilities within the wider community. The rhetorical question "What will you do for England, Who's done so much for you?" suggests a debt of gratitude owed to one's country, implying that service and fidelity are natural extensions of citizenship.

The refrain "Keep troth, speak true, for England, Be straight, keep troth, speak true" reinforces the core message of the poem—adherence to truth and loyalty as fundamental virtues. "Keep troth" is an archaic phrase meaning to maintain faith or loyalty, a concept that Bunting elevates as a timeless and universal principle. The emphasis on speaking truth and being straightforward underscores the importance of honesty and integrity in personal and public life.

As the poem progresses, it maintains that the principle of keeping faith applies universally, "And while we're still at school, boys, The principle's the same." This line suggests that the virtues of loyalty and truthfulness are not contingent upon age or circumstance but are foundational to one's character. The exhortation to "Play up, and play the game" invokes the spirit of fair play and sportsmanship, further illustrating the poem's broader theme of ethical conduct.

The final stanza contemplates the end of life, posing the question of what legacy one leaves behind. The image of growing old and "sinking to your grave" is a powerful reminder of mortality and the enduring significance of how one chooses to live their life. The poem suggests that the ultimate measure of a life well-lived is in maintaining one's commitment to truth and loyalty, "I've lived a Man for England, Kept troth, and spoken true." This statement implies that true honor lies not in grand achievements but in the steadfast adherence to principles of integrity and fidelity.

"Keep Troth" is a poignant meditation on the values that define a life of purpose and meaning. Through its rhythmic cadence and direct appeal, Basil Bunting crafts a message that transcends its immediate context, urging readers to consider the deeper implications of their actions and beliefs. The poem serves as a call to embrace and uphold the virtues of honesty, loyalty, and integrity as guiding principles, not only for the benefit of one's country but as the essence of a life well-lived.


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