# To the Eagle explained — Magnolia Leaves

> Chapter companion for Magnolia Leaves by Mary Weston Fordham.

## What happens

A poetic address to an eagle, admiring its lofty flight and seeking to emulate its upward striving and unwavering purpose.

## Themes in this chapter

### Nature and the Sublime

The eagle is portrayed as a majestic, ethereal creature soaring above the clouds, evoking awe and the sublime power of nature.

### Patriotism and National Identity

The eagle, a national symbol, is addressed as 'Monarch of birds,' linking the poem to themes of national pride and aspiration.

## Character check-ins

### Unknown Narrator

The speaker who addresses the eagle and expresses a desire to emulate its upward flight.

## Key lines

> Fain would I rival thee Monarch of birds Soaring so loftily Up to the clouds!

I wish I could compete with you, king of birds, as you soar high into the clouds.

_The speaker expresses a desire to match the eagle's majestic flight._

> Always tending upward May this be my aim; Ne’er swerving from duty Or shrinking from pain.

May I always strive upward, never straying from my responsibilities or avoiding hardship.

_The speaker adopts the eagle's upward trajectory as a moral and aspirational goal._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/magnolia_leaves_se/chapters/to-the-eagle
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/magnolia_leaves_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/magnolia_leaves_se/chapters