A Picture At Newstead

By Matthew Arnold

Sonnet
    What made my heart, at Newstead, fullest swell?     Twas not the thought of Byron, of his cry     Stormily sweet, his Titan agony;     It was the sight of that Lord Arundel     Who struck, in heat, the child he loved so well,     And the childs reason flickered, and did die.     Painted (he willd it) in the gallery     They hang; the picture doth the story tell.     Behold the stern, maild father, staff in hand!     The little fair-haird son, with vacant gaze,     Where no more lights of sense or knowledge are!     Methinks the woe which made that father stand     Baring his dumb remorse to future days,     Was woe than Byrons woe more tragic far.

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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 deeply poignant reflection on remorse, regret and the tragic loss of innocence and sanity. It presents a stark contrast between the storied woe of Byron and the unnamed Lord Arundel, whose own suffering is described as more tragic. The poem's tone is somber and reflective, evoking a profound sense of sadness and regret.

The poem's structure, following a traditional sonnet form, allows the poet to weave a narrative through a tightly controlled verse. The first eight lines introduce the setting and characters, while the final six lines reveal the tragic consequences of the father's actions and his remorse. The poet skillfully employs visual imagery, such as the "stern, mail'd father, staff in hand" and the "little fair-hair'd son, with vacant gaze," to heighten the emotional depth of the poem. This vivid pictorial detail is a powerful literary device that brings the narrative to life.

The theme of remorse and regret is emphasized through the depiction of the father's "dumb remorse," suggesting a grief so profound that it transcends language. This exploration of remorse and the tragic consequences of our actions is a timeless and universal theme that resonates deeply with readers. Overall, the poem is a haunting exploration of remorse, regret, and the irreversible harm caused by momentary lapses of control.

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.