Classic and Contemporary Poetry: Explained

The poem "Saint Charles!" by Lionel Johnson is a heartfelt tribute to the figure of Charles Lamb, also known as Elia, who was an English essayist and critic. Through a series of praises and comparisons, the poem highlights Lamb's enduring qualities and the contrast between his gentle, contented life and the modern age of dissatisfaction and constant turmoil.

The rhyme scheme in "Saint Charles!" by Lionel Johnson is AAAB. The poem follows a quatrain structure with the first three lines rhyming, while the fourth line stands alone.. The consistent structure reflects the poet's admiration and reverence for Charles Lamb and provides a sense of cohesion to the poem.

The themes of the poem are:

Appreciation of Contentment: The poem celebrates Charles Lamb's ability to find joy in life despite its cares and sorrows. It contrasts his tranquil existence, filled with laughter and warmth, with the modern age's discontent and obsession with new troubles. The speaker expresses a longing to emulate Lamb's contentment and gratitude for life's simple pleasures.

Nostalgia and Tradition: The poem praises Lamb's connection to tradition and his love for old familiar places. It juxtaposes Lamb's appreciation for the timeless beauty of London's streets with the modern obsession for noisy plans and the perceived rights and wrongs of society. The poem suggests that returning to the wisdom and joys of the past can provide solace and fulfillment.

Literary and Intellectual Allusions: Throughout the poem, the speaker references Lamb's affinity for books and literature. The mention of Marvell, Quarles, and Browne reflects Lamb's literary influences and his love for both the classics and the lesser-known works. The poem suggests that engaging with these works brings a sense of richness and fulfillment in contrast to the superficiality of modern distractions.

The poem opens by addressing Charles Lamb as "Saint Charles" and acknowledges Thackeray's recognition of his saintly qualities. It praises Lamb's ability to face life's hardships without fear, highlighting his gentle nature and resilience. The speaker contrasts Lamb's laughter and mirthful looks with the contemporary obsession with sadness and the constant search for new woes.

The poem goes on to describe Lamb's love for London's streets and his ability to find solace in life's turmoil. The speaker expresses a desire to follow Lamb's example, to appreciate the joys that exist and endure, and to bear the rest with grace. Lamb is portrayed as a guiding spirit, encouraging the speaker to choose the ancient joys of literature and tradition over the noise and distractions of the modern world.

The conclusion of the poem emphasizes the speaker's longing to share Lamb's contentment and enjoy the pleasures of reading the works of Marvell, Quarles, and Browne. The mention of Elia, Lamb's pen name, highlights the enduring influence of Lamb's writings and his ability to bring intellectual and literary fulfillment to the speaker's life.

"Saint Charles!" by Lionel Johnson is a heartfelt tribute to the figure of Charles Lamb, celebrating his ability to find contentment and joy in life's simple pleasures. The poem contrasts Lamb's serene existence with the discontent and turmoil of the modern age. It highlights the significance of tradition, literature, and the enduring joys of the past in the face of the superficiality and noise of contemporary society. The poem showcases Johnson's admiration for Lamb and his desire to emulate Lamb's spirit of gratitude and appreciation for life's blessings.

 
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