Workmen's March

The poem features a distinct and insistent rhythm, emulating the steady beat of marching feet, which reinforces its central theme of unity, perseverance, and the power of collective action. The repeated phrase, "Left foot! Right foot! Lines unbroken!/ Keeping time is power's token," serves as a refrain, creating a rousing, almost chant-like atmosphere. This is intensified by the progressive scale of the marchers, growing from "few hundreds" to "hundred thousands," demonstrating the momentum and impact of a unified movement.

The tone is resolute and encouraging, instilling a sense of determination and optimism. The speaker uses rallying language such as "never weaken," and "let us make one marching legion," inspiring readers to join in the collective effort. Specific geographical references to Norway, such as Vardö, Viken, and Bergen, anchor the poem in a specific cultural context, suggesting a call to action for social or political change within this region. The final lines, "Then we'll rout some wrong from Norway, / Open wide to right the doorway," hint at a struggle against injustice, setting a clear goal for the march.

The structure of the poem, with its repeated refrains and rhythmic patterns, echo the steady, unyielding progress of a march, effectively mirroring the content of the poem through its form. Overall, the poem is a potent call to unity and action, using the power of rhythm and repetition to inspire and mobilize.