Boston
Boston - meaning Summary
Name as Living Landmark
Longfellow traces the origin of Boston from its English root, St. Botolph's Town, and meditates on how a place-name carries history across oceans. The poem contrasts vanished physical remains with the lasting power of a name, suggesting cultural continuity and symbolic authority that outlives buildings. It reflects Longfellow's own connection to Boston and his interest in transatlantic heritage and memory.
Read Complete AnalysesSt. Botolph's Town! Hither across the plains And fens of Lincolnshire, in garb austere, There came a Saxon monk, and founded here A Priory, pillaged by marauding Danes, So that thereof no vestige now remains; Only a name, that, spoken loud and clear, And echoed in another hemisphere, Survives the sculptured walls and painted panes. St. Botolph's Town! Far over leagues of land And leagues of sea looks forth its noble tower, And far around the chiming bells are heard; So may that sacred name forever stand A landmark, and a symbol of the power, That lies concentred in a single word.
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