Author: Algernon Charles Swinburne

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    Storm, strong with all the bitter heart of hate,
    Smote England, now nineteen dark years ago,
    As when the tide's full wrath in seaward flow
    Smites and bears back the swimmer. Fraud and fate
    Were leagued against her: fear was fain to prate
    Of honour in dishonour, pride brought low,
    And humbleness whence holiness must grow,
    And greatness born of shame to be so great.
    The winter day that withered hope and pride
    Shines now triumphal on the turning tide
    That sets once more our trust in freedom free,
    That leaves a ruthless and a truthless foe
    And all base hopes that hailed his cause laid low,
    And England's name a light on land and sea.

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Type of Poem: Sonnet

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem is a vivid exploration of national resilience and redemption, juxtaposing dark times with the eventual triumph of enduring values. The storm, a powerful metaphor for tragedy and adversity, sets the tone of struggle and resistance, while the mention of "nineteen dark years" suggests a long period of hardship, possibly a reference to a specific historical event. The poem's structure, with its interlinked rhymes, reflects the continuous ebb and flow of societal struggles, effectively mirroring the cyclicality of history.

The central themes of the poem — honor, pride, humbleness, and greatness — are interwoven with references to deceit, fear, and shame. These contrasting elements elucidate the poet's perspective on the moral complexity and ambiguity inherent in the nation's journey. The final stanza offers a hopeful resolution, celebrating the power of truth and freedom. The repeated references to the sea and the tide serve as a metaphor for national identity and destiny, suggesting that just like the tide, the nation’s fortunes may ebb and flow, but always remain connected to a larger sense of purpose. The poem ends with the uplifting image of England's name as a "light on land and sea," signifying the nation's enduring influence and resilience.