Author: Ella Wheeler Wilcox

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         England, father and mother in one,
         Look on your stalwart son.
    Sturdy and strong, with the valour of youth,
    Where is another so lusty?
    Coated and mailed, with the armour of truth,
    Where is another so trusty?
    Flesh of your flesh, and bone of your bone,
    He is yours alone.

         England, father and mother in one,
         See the wealth of your son.
    Forests primeval, and virginal sod,
    Wheat-fields golden and splendid:
    Riches of nature and opulent God
    For the use of his children intended.
    A courage that dares, and a hope that endures,
    And a soul all yours.

         England, father and mother in one,
         Hear the cry of your son.
    Little cares he for the glories of earth
    Lying around and above him,
    Yearning is he for the rights of his birth,
    And the heart of his mother to love him.
    Vast are your gifts to him, ample his store,
    Now open your door.

         England, father and mother in one,
         Heed the voice of your son.
    Proffer him place in your councils of state:
    Let him sit near, and attend you.
    Ponder his words in the hour of debate,
    Strong is his arm to defend you.
    Flesh of your flesh, and bone of your bone,
    Give him his own.

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Type of Poem: Lyric Poem

Date Written:

Date Published:

Language: English

Keywords: Public Domain

Source: Public Domain Collection

Publisher:

Rights/Permissions: Public Domain

Comments/Notes: This poem serves as a fervent call to the homeland, England, personified as both father and mother. The theme is predominantly one of recognition and rightful inheritance. The poet uses repetition effectively, beginning each stanza with the same invocation, which underscores the importance of the homeland and the poet's deep-seated plea for acknowledgment and inclusion.

The tone is one of passionate insistence, underscored by the use of direct address and imperative verb forms. The text is imbued with a sense of the child's yearning for acceptance and a rightful place in the familial and national lineage. The protagonist is portrayed as robust, brave, and true, representing the ideal qualities of a citizen. The poet also emphasizes the rich potential of this 'son', with references to natural wealth that are metaphorical representations of his skills, potential, and inherent worth.

This poem is structured in four quatrains, each developing a specific aspect of the plea – recognition, wealth, yearning, and finally, a call for action. The rhyme scheme is consistent throughout, lending a rhythmic quality to the poem. The repeated phrase, "flesh of your flesh, and bone of your bone," is a biblical allusion, emphasizing the deep, undeniable connection between the son and England. It also suggests a plea for the recognition of this inherent bond.

Overall, the poem is a powerful exploration of identity, belonging, and the struggle for recognition. It combines elements of patriotism, familial love, and an individual's quest for rightful place and acceptance in the world.