Poetry · Chapter
The Present Time explained
The poem reflects on the rapid progress and technological advancements of the era, contrasting the old ways with the new, and defends simple, understandable poetry against obscure, metaphysical styles.
What happens
The poem reflects on the rapid progress and technological advancements of the era, contrasting the old ways with the new, and defends simple, understandable poetry against obscure, metaphysical styles.
Themes in this chapter
Progress and Technology
The poem celebrates the shift from gas to electric lighting and the surpassing of steam power, highlighting the era's embrace of innovation.
Key passages
“This is no age for mystery, But full of eventful history; Not a time for stupid dreaming, When the lightning it is gleaming.”
This era is not for idle speculation but is rich with significant events, especially as electric light (lightning) illuminates the world.
Sets the tone for the chapter's focus on progress and the rejection of obscurity.
“Our old style walk will soon he gone, In place of wood wo will have stone; And water works from lofty tower Blessings on the town will shower.”
The old ways are fading; wooden structures will be replaced by stone, and water towers will bring benefits to the town.
Illustrates the physical transformation of the landscape due to modernization.