Poem Analysis - When I Have Borne In Memory

A Poet's Patriotic Reflection

Wordsworth's "When I Have Borne In Memory" is a contemplative sonnet exploring the poet's complex feelings towards his country, England. The poem begins with a tone of anxiety and almost accusation, born from observing the decline of past civilizations and a fear that England might follow the same path. However, this unease transforms into fervent patriotism and affection as the speaker acknowledges the nation's vital role in upholding human values. The poem ultimately resolves in a declaration of love and a recognition of the poet's almost familial bond with England.

The Anxiety of National Decline

The poem opens with a sense of historical awareness and a palpable fear of decline. Wordsworth evokes images of "Great Nations" being "tamed" and "ennobling thoughts depart[ing]." This suggests a concern that the pursuit of material wealth ("gold") and the abandonment of intellectual pursuits ("the student's bower") could lead to a nation's moral and spiritual decay. The phrase "fears unnamed" highlights a deep-seated anxiety that transcends specific threats, implying a more profound concern about the direction of English society. This fear is directly linked to the poet's love for his country, for he is most afraid of losing that which he holds dear.

England as Bulwark and Beloved

The central theme shifts from anxiety to ardent patriotism. England is presented as "a bulwark for the cause of men," signifying its role as a defender of freedom, justice, and perhaps even human dignity. This image contrasts sharply with the earlier anxieties, emphasizing the nation's positive potential and justifying the speaker's eventual shame at having doubted its strength. The personal connection deepens as Wordsworth employs the metaphor of a lover or a child. He confesses that his "affection was beguiled," suggesting that his deep emotional attachment to England led to irrational fears and protective instincts. The line, "Felt for thee as a lover or a child!" encapsulates the tenderness and depth of his feeling.

From Swords to Ledgers: A Recurring Image

The image of "men change[ing] swords for ledgers" serves as a powerful symbol of societal corruption. "Swords" can be interpreted not only as instruments of war but also as symbols of courage, honor, and defense of principles. In contrast, "ledgers" represent commerce, wealth, and a focus on material gain. This image suggests that the shift from a warrior culture to a mercantile society could lead to a decline in moral values and a weakening of the nation's spirit. The implied comparison between the physical and the monetary represents the conflict the speaker feels between the pursuit of progress and the preservation of tradition.

A Poet's Reassurance

In conclusion, "When I Have Borne In Memory" is a sonnet that navigates the complexities of national identity and patriotic feeling. Wordsworth moves from a place of fear and doubt to one of profound love and loyalty. The poem acknowledges the potential for societal decline but ultimately affirms the enduring importance of England as a beacon of hope and a defender of human values. The poet's personal affection for his country, expressed through the metaphors of lover and child, underscores the depth of his commitment and the strength of his renewed faith. The poem serves as a testament to the enduring power of patriotism and a reminder of the responsibility to safeguard the ideals that define a nation.