Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part III. - XXVI - The Marriage Ceremony

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
The rites of marriage are an institution Ordain’d by Heaven to guard the human race; A holy covenant, that through the land Binds each to each, in mutual love and trust. Now, let the bridegroom and his fair bride stand Before the altar, in the face of Heaven; And there the Pastor, with a reverent hand, Shall seal their faith and hope, their love and prayer. Blest be their union; and, where’er they go, Let no ill fortune cross their blissful way. Blest be the man who by the sacred tie Is hallow’d; and for him let every hour Of wedded love be blissful; and, at last, Blest be the rest, where Love’s pure joy shall last.
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, Marriage, Covenant, Blessing
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 Marriage Ceremony. The poem celebrates the sanctity of marriage as a divine institution, emphasizing the blessings bestowed upon the couple through their union and the lasting joy that flows from their mutual love and commitment.

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.