Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

Thomas Bailey Aldrich's "In Westminster Abbey" is a homage to the resting place of England's great poets, often referred to as the Poet's Corner. This contemplative poem offers a reflection on the timeless influence of poets, transcending the temporal power of kings and queens. .

Themes

Transcendence of Poetry: The poem places poets on a divine pedestal, their names becoming stars, and their graves turning into shrines. This underscores the belief in the eternal power of poetry, which outshines the fleeting glories of monarchy.

Sacredness and Reverence: Westminster Abbey, as a physical space, becomes a sacred ground where the dust of poets is revered more than precious minerals. It's a temple that houses the divine spark of creativity, and Aldrich's reverence for this place is palpable throughout the poem.

Connection between the Material and Spiritual: Aldrich contrasts the "dross men toil for" with the sacred ashes of poets, highlighting a profound difference between material wealth and spiritual richness. This contrast deepens the poem's contemplative tone.

Structure and Style

The poem consists of two stanzas, each with its unique focus. The first stanza emphasizes the significance and divinity of poets, while the second stanza paints a vivid picture of Westminster Abbey as a sacred space. The language is elegant and formal, imbued with religious and mystical imagery. This lends a solemnity to the poem and aligns with the subject matter. The use of names like Chaucer, Spenser, and Dryden adds specificity to the reverence and connects the reader to the tangible history of English literature.

Historical and Cultural Context

The setting of Westminster Abbey, particularly the Poet's Corner, locates the poem within a rich literary tradition. Aldrich's respect for this tradition resonates with the Victorian-era emphasis on honoring and preserving cultural heritage. The reference to poets as anointed by God reflects a romantic belief in the divine nature of artistic creation, common in the 19th century.

Conclusion

"In Westminster Abbey" by Thomas Bailey Aldrich is a profound tribute to the spiritual essence of poetry and the revered poets of English history. The poem's themes, language, and structure converge to create a solemn and reflective piece that transcends the temporal and material world.

The poem's reverence for the sacred space of Westminster Abbey, contrasted with the vanity of worldly pursuits, elevates the status of poetry to something immortal and divine. It serves as a timeless reminder of the unique power of the poetic voice, a force that remains resonant long after the physical being has turned to dust.

In the end, Aldrich's poem is not only a tribute to the poets resting in Westminster Abbey but also a celebration of the enduring and transformative power of poetry itself, standing as a testament to art's ability to connect us to something greater and more profound than our transient earthly existence.

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