Welcome to Poem of the Day – A War Song to Englishmen by William Blake.
“A War Song to Englishmen” by William Blake is a patriotic poem that urges Englishmen to rise and defend their country. Written during a time of political tension, the poem reflects Blake’s fervent support for England and his disdain for tyranny, as well as his belief in divine justice and the righteousness of England’s cause. The poem emphasizes the moral imperative for Englishmen to fight not only for their homeland but also for liberty and justice.
A War Song to Englishmen Poem
Prepare, prepare the iron helm of war,
Bring forth the lots, cast in the spacious orb;
Th’ Angel of Fate turns them with mighty hands,
And casts them out upon the darken’d earth!
Prepare, prepare!
Prepare your hearts for Death’s cold hand! prepare
Your souls for flight, your bodies for the earth;
Prepare your arms for glorious victory;
Prepare your eyes to meet a holy God!
Prepare, prepare!
Whose fatal scroll is that? Methinks ’tis mine!
Why sinks my heart, why faltereth my tongue?
Had I three lives, I’d die in such a cause,
And rise, with ghosts, over the well-fought field.
Prepare, prepare!
The arrows of Almighty God are drawn!
Angels of Death stand in the louring heavens!
Thousands of souls must seek the realms of light,
And walk together on the clouds of heaven!
Prepare, prepare!
Soldiers, prepare! Our cause is Heaven’s cause;
Soldiers, prepare! Be worthy of our cause:
Prepare to meet our fathers in the sky:
Prepare, O troops, that are to fall to-day!
Prepare, prepare!
Alfred shall smile, and make his harp rejoice;
The Norman William, and the learnèd Clerk,
And Lion Heart, and black-brow’d Edward, with
His loyal queen, shall rise, and welcome us!
Prepare, prepare!
A War Song to Englishmen Poem Explanation
In this poem, Blake addresses Englishmen directly, calling on them to stand up against oppression and threats to their homeland. He celebrates England’s natural beauty and freedom, contrasting it with the corruption and tyranny he sees elsewhere. Blake envisions England as a defender of liberty and urges his countrymen to protect it at all costs. The poem conveys both a deep love for England and a call to action, asking Englishmen to see their fight as a sacred duty.
Structure and Form
Form: The poem is composed of rhyming couplets, a form that gives it a rhythmic, almost chant-like quality fitting for a rallying call. This structure also enhances the straightforward, emphatic tone that Blake uses to address his readers directly.
Rhyme Scheme: Each line rhymes with the next, forming couplets (AA, BB, CC, etc.), which helps maintain a steady pace and builds a sense of urgency.
Meter: The poem is written in a regular meter, which helps reinforce its sense of determination and rhythmic energy, suitable for the poem’s rallying cry.
Detailed Explanation of Major Elements
Themes:
Patriotism: Blake’s poem is filled with pride for England, portraying it as a land of freedom and beauty that must be defended.
Liberty and Justice: Blake connects the act of defending England with a moral duty to uphold liberty. He sees the country as a beacon of justice, and his call to arms is also a call to protect these values.
Divine Sanction: The poem suggests that the defense of England is not just a personal or national duty but one sanctioned by God. Blake’s spiritual beliefs are woven into the poem, and he frames the cause as righteous and ordained.
Imagery and Symbolism:
Natural Imagery: Blake uses images of England’s landscapes, which symbolize the beauty and freedom of the nation. This natural imagery elevates the stakes, emphasizing that these cherished lands are worth defending.
Religious Language: Blake’s language has a religious undertone, using terms that suggest a divinely inspired cause. Words like “faith” and “righteousness” elevate the conflict from a physical battle to a moral crusade.
Tone and Language:
Tone: The tone of the poem is assertive and passionate, reflecting Blake’s urgency in rallying his countrymen to defend their homeland.
Language: Blake uses direct and commanding language, intended to inspire and stir up patriotic feelings. His choice of words reflects both pride and a sense of moral obligation, as he frames the conflict as an essential struggle for justice.
Conclusion
“A War Song to Englishmen” by William Blake is a patriotic poem that emphasizes love for one’s country, the moral duty to protect liberty, and the belief in divine justice. Through vivid imagery, rhythmic structure, and commanding language, Blake calls upon his fellow Englishmen to defend their homeland from tyranny and corruption. The poem is a blend of national pride and moral conviction, reflecting Blake’s belief in England as a symbol of freedom and justice. His rallying cry transcends mere patriotism, presenting the defense of England as a divine and noble cause, reminding readers that the fight for their country is also a fight for righteousness.
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