Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part III. - XX - Baptism

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
Blest be the Church, that, watching o’er the needs Of Infancy, provides a timely shower, Whose virtue changes to a Christian flower A growth of earth,—which had been nursed in weeds. The life of its own wildness by degrees Is tamed; and, when the glance of Heaven is given, Oh! how serene, how strong, the soul made free! Within the arms of holy Church’s power, She whom the world is always tempting still, Grows up, a loved one, to her God and Heaven, By faith—sustained and taught—by trials won; And on the wings of hope, a dove-like thrill Is felt,—a blessing from the Eternal Throne!
Written: 1822-01-01

Share & Analyze This Poem

Spread the beauty of poetry or dive deeper into analysis

Analyze This Poem

Discover the literary devices, structure, and deeper meaning

Create Image

Transform this poem into a beautiful shareable image

Copy to Clipboard

Save this poem for personal use or sharing offline

Share the Love of Poetry
More Poems
More Sonnets
Daily Poem

Poem Details

Date Written: 1822-01-01
Date Published: 1822-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Ecclesiastical Sonnets, Reflection, Baptism, Faith, Spiritual Growth
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 the sacrament of baptism. The poem celebrates baptism as a transformative act that nurtures the soul, guiding it towards spiritual growth and freedom under the protection of the Church, with a sense of hope and divine blessing.

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.