On The Death Of Dr Burgess, The Late Bishop Of Salisbury.

By William Lisle Bowles

Elegy
     Sainted old man, for more than eighty years,      Thee - tranquilly and stilly-creeping - age,      Led to the confines of the sepulchre,      And thy last day on earth - but "Father - Lord -      Which art in heaven" - how pure a faith, and heart      Unmoved, amid the changes of this life,      And tumult of the world, - and oh! what hope, -      What love and constancy of the calm mind,      And tears to misery from the inmost heart      Flowing - at times, a brief sweet smile and voice      How bland, and studies, various and profound,      Of learned languages - but, ever first,      That learning which the oracles of God      Unfolds, even to the close of life's long day      Thy course accompanies!      But, thou, farewell,      And live - this mortal veil removed - in bliss;      Live with the saints in light, whom Christ had loved.      But pardon us, left in this vale of tears,      For one last tear upon thy cold remains -      Pardon, beloved and venerated shade!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
The poem presents a poignant portrayal of aging and death, coupled with a profound faith in the divine. The primary theme is the passage of time, reflected in the depiction of the "sainted old man," whose lengthy life has been led to the "confines of the sepulchre." The tone is serene and reverential, suggesting admiration for the subject's peaceful acceptance of life's inevitable end and his unwavering devotion to his faith.

The poem employs a blend of narrative and descriptive structure, using vivid imagery and emotional appeal to evoke the sense of quiet dignity and tranquility that characterizes the subject's life and death. Notably, the personification of age as a slow, "stilly-creeping" guide towards death highlights the inevitability and naturalness of the aging process.

There is also a significant emphasis on the virtues of faith, constancy, and love, further emphasized through the use of religious references such as "Father - Lord - Which art in heaven" and "the oracles of God." These elements, along with the recurring imagery of light and darkness (evident in phrases like "saints in light" and "vale of tears"), help to underscore the poem's overarching message of spiritual resilience and hope amid life's transient sorrows and trials.

The poem concludes with a poignant farewell, expressing a heartfelt longing for the subject's eternal peace and a plea for forgiveness for the sorrow that his departure has stirred. This ending encapsulates the poem's central exploration of the human condition, the inevitability of death, and the comforting consolation offered by religious faith.

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.