The poem explores the idea that a person who has died fighting for a noble cause is crowned a martyr by death itself. The speaker describes how the deceased's spirit is now free from earthly constraints and can soar to great heights, inspiring others to take up the fight. The poem also touches on the theme of sacrifice, suggesting that the martyr's death was not in vain but will instead bring about positive change.
By Ella Wheeler Wilcox · First published 1899 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Political