Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

In "To the High Court of Parliament (3)," Geoffrey Hill continues his critique of the British political establishment, interweaving literary and historical references to underscore the moral and intellectual decline of contemporary governance. The poem, set in November 1994, juxtaposes the past's intellectual rigor with the present's debased state, reflecting Hill's characteristic blend of erudition and moral fervor.

Hill begins by invoking figures from the past who exemplify intellectual and moral integrity: "—who could outbalance poised / Marvell; balk the strength / of Gillray's unrelenting, unreconciling mind." Andrew Marvell, the 17th-century poet and politician, and James Gillray, the famous political caricaturist, represent a time when wit, critique, and a commitment to truth held sway in the public sphere. These figures serve as a benchmark against which Hill measures the contemporary political class, finding it wanting.

The mention of "grandees risen from scavenge" and the allusion to John Milton, who addressed his "ideal censure" to the corrupt and hypocritical, further underscore the theme of degradation. Hill laments that the current political figures, who have risen through dubious means, lack the moral and intellectual rigor of their predecessors. The reference to Milton’s censure evokes a longing for a return to principled leadership.

Hill's use of the term "Commedia" to describe the political scene draws a parallel to Dante's "Divine Comedy," suggesting that contemporary politics is a tragicomedy of sorts, filled with the bitter realities of human folly and vice. The phrase "staid and bitter Commedia—as she is called" implies a facade of dignity masking deep-seated bitterness and dysfunction.

The imagery of Barry's and Pugin's "grand dark-lantern above the incumbent Thames" refers to the architectural grandeur of the Houses of Parliament, designed by Sir Charles Barry and Augustus Pugin. This grandeur, however, contrasts sharply with the moral darkness Hill perceives within. The "dark-lantern" symbolizes a beacon of supposed enlightenment that fails to illuminate the true nature of the political establishment.

Hill's critique extends to the contemporary political leaders: "You: as by custom unillumined / masters of servile counsel." These leaders are portrayed as unenlightened and subservient, lacking the visionary leadership required to address the nation's needs. The phrase "servile counsel" suggests that their advice and decisions are motivated by self-interest and subservience to power rather than the public good.

Hill laments the absence of voices that can advocate for "despoiled merit" and the "fouled catchments of Demos." The term "despoiled merit" refers to the degradation of genuine talent and virtue, while "Demos," the Greek word for the common people, signifies the erosion of democratic values and the well-being of the populace. Hill questions who can now speak for these neglected and oppressed entities, highlighting the failure of contemporary leaders to uphold justice and equity.

The poem's closing lines evoke the image of Parliament's "high lamp" presiding "with sovereign equity" over the Thames. This image contrasts sharply with the reality of moral and political decay that Hill perceives. The "densely reflective, long-drawn, procession of waters" symbolizes the continuity of history and the enduring impact of political actions. Hill's reflective and critical tone underscores the disconnect between the lofty ideals symbolized by Parliament and the sordid realities of contemporary governance.

In "To the High Court of Parliament (3)," Hill masterfully blends literary, historical, and political references to critique the moral and intellectual decline of British politics. His dense and allusive language demands careful consideration, urging readers to confront the deep-seated issues that continue to shape the political and social landscape.

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