Ecclesiastical Sonnets - Part I. - VII - Recovery

By William Wordsworth

Sonnet
As, when a storm hath ceased, the birds regain Their shelter in the woods, and skies resume The peaceful aspect they had worn so long, So through the triumphs of that second birth Of faith and piety, the Church, unbound, Revived, and on her sacred seat resumed Her ancient functions,—a deep solemn calm Was in the hearts of men, a holy joy, Inviolable trust, a sacred fire Of zeal unquenched, to animate and warm The new-born world,—a world by angels hailed With songs of triumph and a joy that knew No bounds, when now in hope and faith reposed The saintly soul.
Written: 1822-01-01

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Poem Details

Date Written: 1822-01-01
Date Published: 1822-01-01
Language: English
Keywords: Ecclesiastical Sonnets, Reflection, Recovery, Faith, Church
Source: Public Domain Collection
Publisher: W.Wordsworth
Rights/Permissions: Public Domain
Analysis & Notes:
A sonnet from the Ecclesiastical Sonnets series where Wordsworth reflects on the recovery of the Church after a period of strife. The poem describes the restoration of faith and piety, the peace and joy that followed, and the revival of sacred duties, symbolizing a new beginning for the Church.

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.