In Memoriam George Warrington Steevens

By William Ernest Henley

Elegy
    London, December 10, 1869.     Ladysmith, January 15, 1900.     We cheered you forth - brilliant and kind and brave.     Under your country's triumphing flag you fell.     It floats, true Heart, over no dearer grave -     Brave and brilliant and kind, hail and farewell!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem is a poignant tribute to a fallen hero, whose life is marked by two significant dates and places: London and Ladysmith. The theme of heroism, sacrifice, and national pride is evident throughout the poem. The poem is drenched in a tone of reverence, admiration, and sorrow, a lament for the fallen hero who was "brilliant and kind and brave."

The structure of the poem is quite simple, which serves to enhance the emotional impact of the words. It begins and ends with a salute to the hero, a cyclical structure that reinforces the enduring respect and admiration for the deceased. It makes use of the literary device of repetition, repeating the phrase "brilliant and kind and brave" to emphasize the qualities of the hero and to underscore the loss felt by his death.

The use of the country's "triumphing flag" as a symbol for national pride and the grave of the fallen hero is especially impactful. It links the personal loss with a collective sense of national pride and tragedy, thereby amplifying the emotional resonance of the poem. This poem, while brief, encapsulates the admiration for the hero and the sadness of his untimely demise, making a powerful statement on the themes of heroism, sacrifice, and national identity.

Understanding Elegy

An elegy is a form of poetry that expresses sorrow or lamentation, often for someone who has died. This type of poetry serves as a tribute to the deceased, reflecting on their life and the grief left behind.

Elegies are deeply emotional and personal, exploring themes of loss, mourning, and remembrance. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Mournful Tone: Elegies are characterized by a tone of sadness and reflection, as the poet grapples with the pain of loss.
  • Tribute to the Deceased: The subject of an elegy is often someone who has passed away, with the poem serving as a memorial that honors their life and legacy.
  • Personal Reflection: Elegies often include personal reflections on the impact of the deceased on the poet's life, as well as broader musings on mortality and the human condition.
  • Structure and Form: While elegies can vary in form, they often follow a traditional structure that includes an expression of grief, praise for the deceased, and a sense of consolation or acceptance.

From ancient times to the present, elegies have provided a way for poets to navigate the complexities of grief and loss, offering solace and a means of preserving the memory of those who have passed.