Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part II. - XXXVII - English Reformers In Exile

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
Scattered, like sheep, the people of the Lord Have fled in pious grief, the trumpet’s sound, And the sharp sword have sent their flocks abroad, To wander on the bleak and trackless ground; But still, O England, thy bosom lies Open, thy forests hold their sheltering arm, And while the air is calm, no foe is near, No traitor at thy gates, and thou hast not One woe that bitter tears could never bring To heal: but think not, Sovereign, that no frown Of thine can blanch the noble, conscious cheek Of him who loves thee truly;—but beware, And wait on Time to work thy trial now.
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, Reformers, Exile, England
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 English Reformers in exile. The poem speaks to the scattering of the faithful due to persecution, yet also offers a note of hope as England provides a refuge. It warns the Sovereign to be mindful of the trials that time may bring, even as the faithful remain steadfast.

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.