Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part II. - XXXIII - Revival Of Popery

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
The saintly spirit of peace is high In this old dwelling; here the mind May feed on holy thoughts, and find A pure and lasting calm; but oh! Here is no love, no sympathy, No solace, and no hope! And yet, A voice, as from some heavenly seat, Calls to the world, and in the heart A secret impulse lives, that seems To bear us to the Source of Life, And fill us with the Spirit’s breath; For, in the heart of the believer, The words of Jesus never die.
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, Revival, Popery, 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 revival of popery. The poem contrasts the peace and sanctity of the old ways with the renewed fervor for the Catholic faith, highlighting the enduring presence of Christ’s teachings in the hearts of believers.

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.