'The American Rebellion' by Rudyard Kipling


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Before
Twas not while England's sword unsheathed
Put half a world to flight,
Nor while their new-built cities breathed
Secure behind her might;
Not while she poured from Pole to Line
Treasure and ships and men--
These worshippers at Freedoms shrine
They did not quit her then!

Not till their toes were driven forth
By England o'er the main--
Not till the Frenchman from the North
Had gone with shattered Spain;
Not till the clean-swept oceans showed
No hostile flag unrolled,
Did they remember that they owed
To Freedom--and were bold!


After

Thesnow lies thick on Valley Forge,
The ice on the Delaware,
But the poor dead soldiers of King George
They neither know nor care.

Not though the earliest primrose break
On the sunny side of the lane,
And scuffling rookeries awake
Their England' s spring again.

They will not stir when the drifts are gone,
Or the ice melts out of the bay:
And the men that served with Washington
Lie all as still as they.

They willnotstirthoughthe mayflower blows
In the moist dark woods of pine,
And every rock-strewn pasture shows
Mullein and columbine.

Each for his land, in a fair fight,
Encountered strove, and died,
And the kindly earth that knows no spite
Covers them side by side.

She is too busy to think of war;
She has all the world to make gay;
And,behold, the yearly flowers are
Where they were in our fathers' day!

Golden-rod by the pasture-wall
When the columbine is dead,
And sumach leaves that turn, in fall,
Bright as the blood they shed.

Editor 1 Interpretation

The American Rebellion: A Criticism and Interpretation

Rudyard Kipling is a name that needs no introduction in the world of literature. Known for his exceptional storytelling skills and mastery over the English language, Kipling has left a lasting impact on the world of literature. One of his most notable works, "The American Rebellion," is a poem that has stood the test of time and continues to be studied and analyzed to this day. In this literary criticism and interpretation, we will delve deep into the poem, explore its themes and symbols, and attempt to understand the message that Kipling was trying to convey.

Overview of the Poem

"The American Rebellion" is a poem that chronicles the events leading up to the American Revolution and the subsequent war between the colonies and Great Britain. The poem is written from the perspective of the British, and Kipling provides a detailed account of the events that led to the rebellion, the battles that were fought, and the aftermath of the war. The poem is divided into five stanzas, each of which covers a different aspect of the war.

Analysis of the Poem

The Theme of Rebellion

The overarching theme of the poem is rebellion. Kipling highlights the fact that the American colonies rebelled against their mother country, Great Britain, and fought for their independence. The poem provides a detailed account of the events leading up to the rebellion, highlighting the various grievances that the colonists had against their British rulers. Kipling also describes the battles that were fought during the war, showcasing the determination and bravery of both the American and British soldiers.

The Role of Britain

Kipling also explores the role of Britain in the war. He describes the arrogance of the British rulers, who believed that the colonists were inferior to them and deserved to be treated as such. He also highlights the fact that the British were ill-prepared for the war and underestimated the strength and determination of the American colonies. Kipling portrays the British as stubborn and unwilling to compromise, which ultimately led to their defeat.

The Symbolism of Freedom

Freedom is a recurring symbol throughout the poem. Kipling highlights the fact that the American colonies fought for their freedom and independence from Great Britain. He also describes the sacrifices that were made by both the American and British soldiers in the pursuit of this freedom. The symbol of freedom is particularly poignant in the final stanza of the poem, where Kipling describes the aftermath of the war and the joy and relief that the American colonies felt upon achieving their independence.

The Power of Nationalism

Nationalism is another theme that is explored in the poem. Kipling describes the strong sense of national pride that both the American and British soldiers felt, and how this pride fueled their determination to fight for their respective countries. He also highlights the fact that this nationalism led to a great deal of resentment and hatred between the two sides, ultimately leading to the war.

The Irony of History

Finally, Kipling explores the irony of history in the poem. He describes how the American colonies, who had fought for their independence from Great Britain, would go on to become a superpower that would exert its own dominance over the world. He also highlights the fact that the British, who had once ruled over a vast empire, would eventually lose their power and influence in the world.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "The American Rebellion" is a poem that explores a wide range of themes and symbols, from rebellion and nationalism to the power of history and the symbolism of freedom. Kipling's masterful storytelling and use of language make this poem a timeless classic that continues to resonate with readers today. Whether you are a history buff or a lover of poetry, "The American Rebellion" is a must-read that will leave you captivated and moved.

Editor 2 Analysis and Explanation

The American Rebellion: A Poetic Masterpiece by Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling, the renowned English poet, novelist, and short-story writer, is known for his exceptional literary works that have stood the test of time. One of his most celebrated poems is "The American Rebellion," which was published in 1899. The poem is a tribute to the American Revolution and the brave men who fought for their independence from British rule. In this article, we will delve into the poem's themes, structure, and language to understand why it is considered a classic.

Themes

The American Rebellion is a poem that celebrates the American Revolution and the ideals of freedom, liberty, and democracy. Kipling portrays the American colonists as heroic figures who fought for their rights and dignity against a tyrannical British government. The poem is a tribute to the spirit of rebellion and the courage of those who stood up against oppression.

The poem also highlights the importance of unity and solidarity in the face of adversity. Kipling emphasizes the need for the colonists to come together and fight as one against their oppressors. He praises the leaders of the American Revolution, such as George Washington, for their leadership and vision. The poem is a reminder that the struggle for freedom requires sacrifice, determination, and a shared sense of purpose.

Structure

The American Rebellion is a sonnet, a fourteen-line poem that follows a specific rhyme scheme and structure. Kipling uses the traditional Shakespearean sonnet form, which consists of three quatrains (four-line stanzas) and a final couplet (two-line stanza). The rhyme scheme is ABAB CDCD EFEF GG, with each line written in iambic pentameter.

The poem's structure is significant because it reflects the poem's themes and message. The sonnet form is a traditional poetic form that has been used for centuries to express love, passion, and devotion. By using this form to celebrate the American Revolution, Kipling elevates the struggle for freedom to the level of a romantic ideal. The poem's structure also emphasizes the importance of unity and solidarity, as the final couplet brings the poem to a close with a powerful message of hope and determination.

Language

Kipling's use of language in The American Rebellion is masterful. He employs a range of poetic devices, such as metaphor, alliteration, and personification, to create a vivid and powerful image of the American Revolution. For example, in the first quatrain, Kipling uses the metaphor of a "storm" to describe the rebellion:

"The tumult and the shouting dies; The captains and the kings depart: Still stands Thine ancient sacrifice, An humble and a contrite heart."

Here, Kipling compares the rebellion to a storm that has passed, leaving behind a sense of calm and reflection. The use of the word "sacrifice" in the final line also highlights the theme of sacrifice and the importance of humility in the struggle for freedom.

Kipling also uses personification to give voice to the American colonists. In the second quatrain, he writes:

"Our fathers to their graves have gone; Their strife is past, their triumph won; But sterner trials wait the race Which rises in their honored place."

Here, Kipling personifies the colonists as a "race" that has taken up the mantle of their forefathers. The use of the word "sterner" also emphasizes the challenges that lie ahead and the need for courage and determination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The American Rebellion is a poetic masterpiece that celebrates the American Revolution and the ideals of freedom, liberty, and democracy. Kipling's use of language, structure, and themes elevates the struggle for freedom to the level of a romantic ideal. The poem is a reminder that the struggle for freedom requires sacrifice, determination, and a shared sense of purpose. It is a tribute to the spirit of rebellion and the courage of those who stood up against oppression. The American Rebellion is a classic poem that continues to inspire and resonate with readers today.

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