Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part III. - II - Patriotic Sympathies

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
Not seldom, clad in radiant vest, Deceit, in likings most sincere, Hath cheated, unawares, the heart That most confided. ’Twas a fear That, whether right or wrong, we nursed At home, and made it blossom where It was most tender, in our breast: But, ah! in France it spread a snare, Which tempted onward, one and all, In wanton idleness, to roam; And many a weary exile fell A victim to a treacherous home, And none who dared the blow to deal Upon his country’s laws—was spared.
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, Patriotism, Sympathy, France
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.Wordsworth
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A sonnet from Part III of the Ecclesiastical Sonnets series where Wordsworth reflects on patriotic sympathies and the consequences of misguided loyalties. The poem describes how deceit can lead to unintended consequences, particularly in the context of France, where many fell victim to false promises and treachery.

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.