Gerard Manley Hopkins’ “The Sea and the Skylark” stands as one of the most compelling examples of Victorian nature poetry, showcasing the poet’s unique ability to capture the raw power of natural elements while exploring deeper themes about humanity’s relationship with the environment. This 1877 sonnet presents a vivid contrast between the eternal beauty of nature and the degradation of human civilization, making it remarkably relevant for modern readers grappling with environmental concerns. The poem emerges from Hopkins’ time in Wales, where he served as a Jesuit priest and found profound inspiration in the Welsh landscape. Through his distinctive sprung…
Author: Mukesh Rishit
Mukesh Rishit
About Me I’m a passionate English literature enthusiast with years of experience teaching competitive exams like UGC NET. As the author of 35+ books and a recipient of this year’s Fulbright Distinguished Award for International Teachers, I strive to make literature accessible to all. Currently, I’m a Lecturer in English with the Government of Rajasthan and love sharing my insights through blogs on literature and learning.
Arthur Rimbaud’s “Asleep in the Valley” is one of the most powerful anti-war poems in world literature. This haunting sonnet, written when the poet was just sixteen years old, masterfully disguises the brutal reality of war beneath layers of peaceful pastoral imagery. The poem’s genius lies in its shocking revelation that transforms what appears to be a sleeping soldier into a devastating commentary on the futility of war and the tragic loss of young life. Understanding the Historical Context of “Asleep in the Valley” The Franco-Prussian War and Its Impact Rimbaud wrote this poem as a reaction to the Franco-Prussian…
“The Haunted House” by Felicia Dorothea Hemans offers readers a captivating glimpse into early 19th-century Gothic literature. This haunting poem explores themes of lost love, memory, and the lingering presence of the dead through Hemans’ masterful use of atmospheric imagery and emotional depth. Whether you’re a student preparing for exams or a literature enthusiast exploring Romantic poetry, this comprehensive summary provides everything you need to understand this fascinating work. Historical Context of “The Haunted House” The Romantic Period and Gothic Influences Felicia Dorothea Hemans (1793-1835) wrote during the height of the Romantic period, when Gothic literature captivated readers across Europe.…
Narrative poetry stands as one of the most powerful ways to weave tales with rhythm and emotion. At LitGram, we believe that great stories can be told in many forms, and narrative poetry combines the art of storytelling with the beauty of verse. When you explore narrative poetry examples, you discover how poets craft complete stories with defined characters, vivid settings, and engaging plots—all while maintaining the musicality and imagery that make poetry so distinctive. Have you ever found yourself completely absorbed in a poem that tells a story? That’s the magic of narrative poetry—it captures your imagination while appealing…
Elaine Showalter’s seminal essay “Towards a Feminist Poetics” (1979) stands as one of the most influential contributions to feminist literary criticism. Published during a time when feminist perspectives were marginalized in academic circles, Showalter’s work provided a comprehensive framework for understanding women’s literature and their relationship to literary culture. Instead of simply adapting existing male-dominated theories, Showalter boldly proposed new models centered on female experience, giving voice to perspectives that had long been silenced in the literary canon. This essay explores Showalter’s groundbreaking concepts, particularly her division of feminist criticism into two distinct approaches—”feminist critique” and “gynocritics”—and her identification of…
William Congreve’s “The Way of the World” stands as the most brilliant example of Restoration comedy of manners, offering a satirical glimpse into the aristocratic society of late 17th century England. This literary masterpiece skillfully exposes the follies, intrigues, and social behaviors of the upper class through witty dialogue and complex romantic entanglements. Whether you’re a literature student or enthusiast, this comprehensive guide will help you understand why this play remains relevant even after three centuries. Historical Context of Comedy of Manners and Restoration Period The Birth of Restoration Comedy The Restoration Period (1660-1700) marked a significant turning point in…
Robert Frost’s “Fire and Ice” stands as one of literature’s most powerful examinations of humanity’s capacity for destruction. In just nine tightly crafted lines, Frost presents readers with a profound meditation on desire, hatred, and the end of the world. This concise masterpiece has captivated readers for over a century with its deceptive simplicity and philosophical depth. Let’s explore this remarkable poem and uncover the burning insights beneath its cool exterior. The Historical Context Behind Frost’s Apocalyptic Vision Frost’s Life When Writing “Fire and Ice” Robert Frost wrote “Fire and Ice” in 1920, a period marked by significant global upheaval.…
“What is truth? said jesting Pilate, and would not stay for an answer.” Francis Bacon begins his masterful essay “Of Truth with this powerful opening line,” directly addressing humanity’s complex relationship with truth and falsehood. Written in the early 17th century, this essay explores why people often prefer lies over truth, examines the inherent value of truthfulness in human affairs, and demonstrates how the pursuit of truth ultimately elevates human nature. This comprehensive analysis breaks down the essay’s key themes, literary techniques, and enduring relevance for literature students and truth-seekers alike. The Historical Context of Bacon’s “Of Truth” Bacon’s Life…
Are you struggling to understand Joseph Addison’s “Sir Roger at Church”? This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about this essential English literature classic. From the historical context to character analysis, we’ll explore how this 18th-century gem continues to delight readers with its wit, humor, and social commentary. Historical Context: The Spectator and Early 18th Century England The Birth of The Spectator “Sir Roger at Church” first appeared in The Spectator on July 9, 1711. This influential periodical was founded by Joseph Addison and Richard Steele, two prominent writers who sought to reform English society through gentle…
Katharine Tynan (1859-1931) wrote “Any Woman” during Ireland’s literary revival. Born in Dublin, she published over 100 novels and numerous poetry collections. Her work often explored themes of Irish nationalism, Catholic faith, and women’s domestic lives. During Tynan’s era, women’s roles were largely confined to the domestic sphere. This context makes “Any Woman” particularly significant as it elevates and celebrates the often invisible work of mothers and wives. The Irish Literary Landscape Tynan belonged to a vibrant Irish literary circle that included W.B. Yeats and Lady Gregory. While many of her contemporaries focused on political themes, Tynan often turned her…