by Coleridge · Cluster: Nationalism and Patriotism · Democracy · Liberty Political Freedom
Abstract
A sonnet hailing Stanhope as an incorruptible ‘Friend of Humankind’ pleading the cause of Nature and Liberty; themes of patriotism, virtue, and freedom.
Connections
Motifs: Sun Themes & Concepts: Liberty Political Freedom, Nationalism and Patriotism, Heroism, Power and Corruption Forms & Genres: Sonnet
Testo integrale / Full text
ON READING HIS LATE PROTEST IN THE HOUSE OF LORDS
‘MORNING CHRONICLE,’ JAN. 31, 1795
STANHOPE! I hail, with ardent Hymn, thy name!
Thou shalt be bless’d and lov’d, when in the dust
Thy corse shall moulder — Patriot pure and just!
And o’er thy tomb the grateful hand of FAME
Shall grave:—’Here sleeps the Friend of Humankind!’ 5
For thou, untainted by CORRUPTION’S bowl,
Or foul AMBITION, with undaunted soul
Hast spoke the language of a Free-born mind
Pleading the cause of Nature! Still pursue
Thy path of Honour! — To thy Country true, 10
Still watch th’ expiring flame of Liberty!
O Patriot! still pursue thy virtuous way,
As holds his course the splendid Orb of Day,
Or thro’ the stormy or the tranquil sky!
ONE OF THE PEOPLE.
1795.