A British-Roman Song

By Rudyard Kipling

Lyric Poem
My father's father saw it not, And I, belike, shall never come To look on that so-holy spot, That very Rome, Crowned by all Time, all Art, all Might, The equal work of Gods and Man, City beneath whose oldest height, The Race began! Soon to send forth again a brood, Unshakable, we pray, that clings To Rome's thrice-hammered hardihood, In arduous things. Strong heart with triple armour bound, Beat strongly, for thy life-blood runs, Age after Age, the Empire round, In us thy Sons Who, distant from the Seven Hills, Loving and serving much, require Thee, thee to guard 'gainst home-born ills The Imperial Fire!

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Poem Details

Language: English
Keywords: Public Domain
Source: Public Domain Collection
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
This poem explores themes of heritage, continuity, and the enduring power of civilization, specifically focusing on Rome as a symbol for these ideas. The speaker laments never having been to Rome, a city depicted as an eternal and divine place, "Crowned by all Time, all Art, all Might." This gives the poem a tone of both reverence and longing.

The poem is structured in five quatrains with a consistent ABAB rhyme scheme, which produces a rhythmic, song-like quality that underscores the poem’s themes of continuation and cyclical history. The repetition of the word "all" in the second stanza emphasizes the grandeur of Rome and its all-encompassing influence on civilization.

One of the standout literary devices is the use of metaphors such as "Rome's thrice-hammered hardihood" and "Strong heart with triple armour bound," which convey the resilience and enduring power of Rome. The "Imperial Fire" in the last line symbolizes the spirit of Rome, suggesting the speaker's desire for protection against domestic challenges. The repetition of the word "thrice" and "triple" could also symbolize the Trinity in Christian theology, hinting at Rome's religious significance.

This poem, therefore, is not just an ode to Rome, but an exploration of the speaker's personal connection to the city and its historical legacy. Even as the speaker acknowledges the distance, there is a strong sense of belonging and a desire to protect and continue this legacy.

Exploring Lyric Poetry

Lyric poetry is a powerful and intimate form of expression, characterized by its focus on the personal emotions and thoughts of the poet. Often musical in nature, lyric poems resonate with readers through their vivid language and rhythmic flow, capturing moments of intense feeling.

Here are some key characteristics that define lyric poetry:

  • Expressive Language: Lyric poems use rich and evocative language to convey deep emotions, often painting a vivid picture of the poet's inner world.
  • Personal Perspective: Typically written in the first person, these poems offer a window into the poet's personal experiences, thoughts, and reflections.
  • Musicality: Lyric poems often feature a rhythmic structure, with meter and rhyme that give them a song-like quality, enhancing the emotional impact.

From ancient odes to contemporary free verse, lyric poetry remains a beloved and enduring form, celebrated for its ability to articulate the nuances of human emotion in a way that resonates deeply with readers.