Poetry · Chapter
Nova Scotia explained
A brief poem addressing Nova Scotia's threat to withdraw from Confederation, expressing frustration and a willingness to let the province leave.
What happens
A brief poem addressing Nova Scotia's threat to withdraw from Confederation, expressing frustration and a willingness to let the province leave.
Themes in this chapter
Local Patriotism and Regional Pride
The poem reacts to Nova Scotia's regional pride and desire to secede, reflecting tensions between local identity and national unity.
Key passages
“If you are sulky, Nova Scotia, We’ll gladly let you float away From out our Confederation; You sicken us with sly agitation. If any more our patience you do tax We’ll let you go to Halifax.”
If Nova Scotia remains discontented, we are willing to let it leave the Confederation, as its covert agitation is tiresome. If it continues to test our patience, we will allow it to depart to Halifax.
The poet expresses exasperation with Nova Scotia's secessionist stance, using sarcasm to dismiss the threat.