Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part II. - XXXI - Edward VI

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
Sweet is the holiness of Youth—so felt, And so perceived, in man’s habitual mind, That not with vulgar prejudice or pride Those will reject it, who aspire to find The roots of manhood and his noble worth Deep in the thought and knowledge of a child. Oh, Edward, hadst thou lived to hold the truth Of holiest creed, and to fulfill the trust Of her who in the days of old Spoke with a tender voice, at times upbraiding Those who on her beloved child, our hearts Do cherish as a gift of God’s pure 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, Edward VI, Youth, Holiness
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 Edward VI. The poem celebrates the holiness and purity of youth, lamenting the early death of Edward VI and imagining what might have been had he lived to fully realize the noble potential seen in him.

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.