At A Dinner To Admiral Farragut

By Oliver Wendell Holmes

Narrative Poem
    Now, smiling friends and shipmates all,     Since half our battle 's won,     A broadside for our Admiral!     Load every crystal gun     Stand ready till I give the word, -     You won't have time to tire, -     And when that glorious name is heard,     Then hip! hurrah! and fire!     Bow foremost sinks the rebel craft, -     Our eyes not sadly turn     And see the pirates huddling aft     To drop their raft astern;     Soon o'er the sea-worm's destined prey     The lifted wave shall close, -     So perish from the face of day     All Freedom's banded foes!     But ah! what splendors fire the sky     What glories greet the morn!     The storm-tost banner streams on high,     Its heavenly hues new-born!     Its red fresh dyed in heroes' blood,     Its peaceful white more pure,     To float unstained o'er field and flood     While earth and seas endure!     All shapes before the driving blast     Must glide from mortal view;     Black roll the billows of the past     Behind the present's blue,     Fast, fast, are lessening in the light     The names of high renown, -     Van Tromp's proud besom fades from sight,     And Nelson's half hull down!     Scarce one tall frigate walks the sea     Or skirts the safer shores     Of all that bore to victory     Our stout old commodores;     Hull, Bainbridge, Porter, - where are they?     The waves their answer roll,     "Still bright in memory's sunset ray, -     God rest each gallant soul!"     A brighter name must dim their light     With more than noontide ray,     The Sea-King of the "River Fight,"     The Conqueror of the Bay, -     Now then the broadside! cheer on cheer     To greet him safe on shore!     Health, peace, and many a bloodless year     To fight his battles o'er!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem is a stirring homage to naval warfare and heroism, employing vivid imagery and energetic rhythm to convey both the thrill and the somber realities of maritime combat. The primary theme revolves around the valor and sacrifice of naval heroes, contrasting the mercilessness of battle with the honor and glory they earn. The poem is imbued with an enduring sense of patriotism, commemorating the bravery of both the fallen and the victor.

The poet's adept use of maritime and battle metaphors underpins the structure of the poem, creating an ebb and flow that mimics the sea's rhythm. This clever structural device enhances the poem's immersive nature, drawing the reader into the tumultuous world of naval warfare. The poet also frequently employs exclamatory phrases such as "hip! hurrah! and fire!" and "cheer on cheer," which infuse the poem with a palpable sense of excitement and urgency. Meanwhile, the use of personification, such as the "smiling friends" and "crystal gun," lends a touch of humanity to the impersonal realities of war.

In terms of tone, the poem oscillates between triumphant and elegiac. This is particularly visible in the transition from the victorious first stanza to the more mournful reflection on the fallen heroes in the final stanzas. Through this shift, the poet reminds us that even in victory, the cost of battle is high, and the glory attained is often tinged with sorrow. Overall, this poem is a powerful testament to the courage, sacrifice, and enduring spirit of those who brave the seas in the name of freedom and honor.

Exploring Narrative Poetry

Narrative poetry is a form of poetry that tells a story, often making use of the voices of a narrator and characters as well. Unlike lyric poetry, which focuses on emotions and thoughts, narrative poetry is dedicated to storytelling, weaving tales that captivate readers through plot and character development.

Narrative poems are unique in their ability to combine the depth of storytelling with the expressive qualities of poetry. Here are some defining characteristics:

  • Structured Plot: Narrative poems typically have a clear beginning, middle, and end, following a plot that might involve conflict, climax, and resolution, much like a short story or novel.
  • Character Development: Characters in narrative poems are often well-developed, with distinct voices and personalities that drive the story forward.
  • Descriptive Language: The language used in narrative poetry is vivid and descriptive, painting a clear picture of the scenes and events, while also conveying the emotions and atmosphere of the story.

From ancient epics like "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey" to more modern narrative poems, this form continues to engage readers by blending the art of storytelling with the beauty and rhythm of poetry.