A Song of Defeat by G.K. Chesterton
A Song of Defeat is a poem written by G.K. Chesterton in which he reflects on the human condition and the inevitability of defeat. The poem begins with the line "I have seen the sun break through to illuminate the fields" and goes on to describe how even the most beautiful things can be fleeting and ultimately lead to disappointment. Throughout the poem, Chesterton uses vivid imagery and powerful language to convey his message of resilience in the face of adversity.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1908 · Genre: Poetry, War, Political · 562 words
First lines
The line breaks and the guns go under, / The lords and the lackeys ride the plain; / I draw deep breaths of the dawn and thunder, / And the whole of my heart grows young again.
For our Chiefs said "Done," and I did not deem it; / Our Seers said "Peace," and it was not peace; / Earth will grow worse till men redeem it, / And wars more evil, ere all wars cease.
What this Textopian page supports
A Song of Defeat is listed on Textopian as a poem by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1908 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Poem
- Author: G.K. Chesterton
- Date: 1908 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, War, Political, Historical, Philosophical
- Length: 562 words
- Structure: 1 section, 15 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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- Work identity for A Song of Defeat by G.K. Chesterton
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form with a focus on rhythm and meter, characteristic of poetry.
- War — The themes and imagery revolve around battles, soldiers, and the impact of war.
- Political — The text critiques societal structures and political issues, reflecting on power dynamics and governance.
- Historical — References to historical events and figures suggest a connection to past conflicts and societal changes.
Tags
defeat · poetry · philosophy · existentialism · human experience · struggle · loss · resilience · identity · emotion · reflection · society