The Channel Tunnel - Sonnets

By Algernon Charles Swinburne

Sonnet
    Not for less love, all glorious France, to thee,     Sweet enemy called in days long since at end.     Now found and hailed of England sweeter friend,     Bright sister of our freedom now, being free;     Not for less love or faith in friendship we     Whose love burnt ever toward thee reprehend     The vile vain greed whose pursy dreams portend     Between our shores suppression of the sea.     Not by dull toil of blind mechanic art     Shall these be linked for no mans force to part     Nor length of years and changes to divide,     But union only of trust and loving heart     And perfect faith in freedom strong to abide     And spirit at one with spirit on either side.

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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 fervent ode to friendship and unity, specifically between nations, with a clear political undertone. It speaks to the relationship between England and France, once enemies, now allies, bound by shared values of freedom and mutual respect. The theme of unity is deeply rooted in the poem, characterizing the connection between the two countries as more profound and enduring than mere geographical or political bonds.

The narrative voice uses the metaphor of the sea to represent a barrier, implying that physical distances or divisions are negligible compared to the strength of the emotional and ideological ties that bind. The tone is resolute and hopeful, emphasizing the transformative power of trust, love, and a shared belief in freedom. The poem employs an ABAB rhyme scheme, which gives a rhythmic quality to its passionate plea for unity. The use of words like "vile vain greed" and "blind mechanic art" serves to discount superficial or materialistic connections, underscoring the significance of spiritual and emotional bonds. Overall, this poem is a celebration of friendship's resilience and the enduring power of shared values.

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.