Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

"The Hand of Lincoln" is a poem by Edmund Clarence Stedman, an American poet, critic, and editor who lived from 1833 to 1908. The poem is a tribute to Abraham Lincoln, reflecting on his life and legacy as a champion of freedom and democracy. The poem reflects a broader interest in the social and political issues of the late 19th century, and the ways in which individual actions can shape the course of national events.

Context:

"The Hand of Lincoln" was likely written in the late 19th century, during a period of national reflection on the legacy of Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War. The poem reflects a growing interest in Lincoln's role as a national hero and symbol of American values, as well as a broader concern with the meaning and legacy of the Civil War. The poem is part of a larger tradition of patriotic poetry, which sought to use literary forms to express national pride and identity.

Content:

"The Hand of Lincoln" is a poem in which the speaker reflects on the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln, focusing on the power and significance of his hand. The poem portrays Lincoln as a figure of great strength, compassion, and wisdom, whose actions and values continue to inspire and guide the nation. The poem explores themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom, and suggests that individual actions can have a profound impact on the course of national history.

Form:

"The Hand of Lincoln" is written in free verse, with a meditative and reflective tone that reflects the speaker's admiration for Lincoln. The poem is divided into several stanzas, each containing a different aspect of the speaker's reflection on Lincoln's hand.

Poetic Elements:

"The Hand of Lincoln" makes use of several poetic techniques and devices, including metaphor, imagery, and repetition. The use of metaphor, such as the comparison of Lincoln's hand to a "pilot's hand," adds to the poem's emotional impact, while the imagery of the hand and its actions emphasizes the power and significance of Lincoln's life and legacy. The repetition of phrases such as "the hand of Lincoln" emphasizes the poem's focus on Lincoln's physical presence and its symbolism.

Summary:

"The Hand of Lincoln" is a notable example of patriotic poetry, and a significant contribution to Edmund Clarence Stedman's body of work. The poem's reflection on the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln and its exploration of the themes of leadership, sacrifice, and the struggle for freedom are enduring themes that continue to resonate with readers today. The poem's use of metaphor, imagery, and repetition adds to its poetic and emotional impact, while also conveying the speaker's deep admiration for Lincoln and his values. Overall, "The Hand of Lincoln" is a noteworthy example of Stedman's poetic skill and his engagement with the historical and political issues of his time.

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