Author: Alfred Lord Tennyson

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Dead Princess, living Power, if that which lived
True life live onand if the fatal kiss,
Born of true life and love, divorce thee not
From earthly love and lifeif what we call
The spirit flash not all at once from out
This shadow into Substancethen perhaps
The mellowd murmur of the peoples praise
From thine own State, and all our breadth of realm,
Where Love and Longing dress thy deeds in light,
Ascends to thee; and this March morn that sees
Thy Soldier-brothers bridal orange-bloom
Break thro the yews and cypress of thy grave,
And thine Imperial mother smile again,
May send one ray to thee! and who can tell
ThouEnglands England-loving daughterthou
Dying so English thou wouldst have her flag
Borne on thy coffinwhere is he can swear
But that some broken gleam from our poor earth
May touch thee, while, remembering thee, I lay
At thy pale feet this ballad of the deeds
Of England, and her banner in the East?

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Type of Poem: Elegy

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a poignant blend of romantic nationalism, spirituality, and personal reflection. The recurring theme of life after death is explored through the depiction of the "Dead Princess" as a "living Power," suggesting a belief in the enduring influence of the deceased. This is further emphasized by the speculation of the spirit's possible lingering connection to the earthly realm, giving the poem an air of spiritual contemplation.

The tone is one of deep reverence and longing, punctuated by the imagery of the princess's grave and the soldier-brother's bridal celebration. This juxtaposition might be construed as a metaphor for the cycle of life and death, the continuity of national duty, and the reconciliation of joy and grief. The poem is also notable for its patriotic undertones. The repeated references to England and the princess's love for her country ties personal loss to national identity, casting the deceased as a symbol of national pride and unity.

In terms of structure, the poem doesn't adhere strictly to a regular rhyme or meter, instead prioritizing the rhythm of natural speech. This gives the verse a more conversational and intimate feel. The use of enjambment, where sentences and ideas flow beyond the end of lines, also contributes to this effect and creates a sense of continuity, mirroring the poem's theme of enduring life and influence.

Imagery and symbolism are also key elements in this poem, with the "bridal orange-bloom" and the "yews and cypress of thy grave" serving as powerful symbols of both mourning and celebration. The closing lines – a humble offering of a ballad to the deceased princess – underscores the poet's deep respect and affection, turning the poem into a tribute that is both personal and national in scope.