Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part III. - XXXI - Funeral Service

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
There is a sombre Spirit in the sky, That blows from tempests, and from storms that rise; There is a sombre Spirit in the heart, That broods o’er Nature’s works with tearful eyes; And there is one that wails with loud lament The mournful thoughts of sorrow and regret; But the calm Spirit of the Pastor now, Who stands beside the grave, with lips unshaken, Breathes forth the words of peace, and, with firm faith, Commends the spirit to the Hand that gave. Blest are the souls that thus in peace lie down; Blest they who sleep, where no ill may befall; For, though the grave may shut out every sound, The voice of God will be their final call.
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, Funeral, Service, Peace
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 Funeral Service. The poem contrasts the sorrowful spirits that accompany death with the calm and steadfast faith of the pastor, who offers peace and hope to the departed soul, trusting in the divine call that will ultimately bring them to eternal rest.

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.