In Memoriam P. D by G.K. Chesterton
In Memoriam P. D. is a poem written by G.K. Chesterton in memory of his friend, the poet and critic, Philip Derrick. The poem consists of four stanzas and is written in iambic pentameter. It begins with an invocation to the Muses and goes on to describe the life and work of Derrick. The second stanza focuses on Derrick's love for literature and his ability to appreciate it, while the third stanza discusses his friendship with Chesterton. The final stanza is a tribute to Derrick's character and his impact on those around him.
By G.K. Chesterton · First published 1940 · Genre: Poetry, Elegy, Political Commentary · 283 words
First lines
NICE, JANUARY 30, 1914.
If any in an island cradle curled Of comfort, may make offerings to you, Who in the day of all denial blew A bugle through the blackness of the world,
An English hand would touch your shroud, in trust That truth again be told in English speech.
And we too yet may practise what we preach, Though it were practising the bayonet thrust.
What this Textopian page supports
In Memoriam P. D is listed on Textopian as a poem by G.K. Chesterton, dated 1940 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: 1940 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Poetry, Elegy, Political Commentary, Historical, Satire
- Length: 283 words
- Structure: 1 section, 10 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Very Easy (5th Grade or below)
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
- In Memoriam A H H by Alfred Tennyson
- Obsequial Ode by D. H. Lawrence
- Elegiacs by Charles Kingsley
- Parting by George William Russell
- Second April Elegy Before Death by Edna St Vincent Millay
- Second April Elegy by Edna St Vincent Millay
Genres
- Poetry — The work is structured in verse form, utilizing rhyme and meter, which are characteristic of poetry.
- Elegy — The text serves as a lament for a deceased individual, reflecting on themes of death and remembrance.
- Political Commentary — The poem includes references to political figures and events, critiquing societal and political issues.
- Historical — The work alludes to historical events and figures, providing context and commentary on past occurrences.
Tags
elegy · grief · loss · memory · faith · philosophy · friendship · reflection · nature · spirituality · identity · mortality