Poetry · Chapter
The Bells of Malines explained
In the midst of World War I, the bell-ringer of Malines climbs the tower of St.
What happens
In the midst of World War I, the bell-ringer of Malines climbs the tower of St. Rombold's to play patriotic hymns and holy songs, offering comfort and defiance to the besieged town as Belgium faces invasion.
Themes in this chapter
Duty and Patriotism
The bell-ringer fulfills his duty by playing patriotic songs like 'The Flemish Lion' and 'Brabançonne' to inspire resistance against invasion.
Faith and Doubt
The holy hymns and bell names like 'Jesu' and 'Maria' invoke faith as a source of strength in the face of war and destruction.
Characters to notice
- the Master
The bell-ringer who climbs the tower to play the carillon, risking his life to send music over the troubled town.
- Jesus
Referenced in the bell names 'Jesu' and 'Maria', part of the sacred music played.
- Mary
Referenced in the bell name 'Maria', part of the sacred music played.
Key passages
“The other carillons have ceased: Fallen is Hasselt, fallen Diest, From Ghent and Bruges no voices come, Antwerp is silent, Brussels dumb!”
All the other cities' bells are silent because they have been conquered or destroyed.
Highlights the isolation of Malines as the last place still ringing its carillon.
“She will not falter, faint, nor fail, But fight until her rights prevail And all her ancient belfries ring 'The Flemish Lion,' 'God Save the King!'”
Belgium will resist and continue to fight until its freedom is restored and its bells can ring again.
Expresses the resolve of Belgium to endure the war and reclaim its sovereignty.