Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part II. - XXIX - Translation Of The Bible

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
The Bible! A precious treasure, all may have The gift, the words of life; the pages live For ever in our memory, and give New light and comfort to the darkest grave. Oft hath it cheered the simple peasant’s heart; And meek, unlettered men of lowly state, Who knew no more of learning’s specious art Than the mute creatures in the desert bare, Have felt the strength of this undying charm. The Book, the holy Book, the Word of God, Tells how the Saviour walked this earth, and shed His blood for man;—how, from His chosen race, He formed a Church, to be a sheltering grace.
Written: 1822-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1822-01-01
Date Published: 1822-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Ecclesiastical Sonnets, Reflection, Bible, Translation, Faith
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.Wordsworth
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A sonnet from Part II of the Ecclesiastical Sonnets series where Wordsworth reflects on the translation of the Bible. The poem celebrates the accessibility of the Scriptures, which provide comfort and guidance to people of all walks of life, emphasizing the enduring power and significance of God’s Word.

Understanding the Sonnet

The sonnet is one of the most enduring and celebrated forms of poetry, known for its strict structure and profound themes. With a history spanning centuries, sonnets have been used to explore love, beauty, politics, and mortality, all within the confines of just 14 lines.

Sonnets are characterized by their precise form and rhyme scheme, which vary depending on the type of sonnet. Here’s a closer look:

  • Shakespearean (English) Sonnet: Composed of three quatrains followed by a final couplet, with a rhyme scheme of ABABCDCDEFEFGG. This form often builds a complex argument or narrative, culminating in a powerful closing statement.
  • Petrarchan (Italian) Sonnet: Divided into an octave (eight lines) and a sestet (six lines), with a typical rhyme scheme of ABBAABBA for the octave, followed by various patterns in the sestet such as CDECDE or CDCDCD. The octave usually presents a problem, with the sestet providing a resolution.
  • Meter: Sonnets are traditionally written in iambic pentameter, which gives the poem a rhythmic and melodic quality that enhances its emotional impact.

The sonnet’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to condense complex emotions and ideas into a small but potent package, making it a favorite form for poets seeking to explore profound themes with precision and elegance.