Welcome to the Prince of Wales explained

What happens

Themes in this chapter

• Local Patriotism and Regional Pride

  The poem expresses strong Canadian patriotism, celebrating the maple tree and the warm welcome for the royal visitor.

• Nature and the Environment

  References to the maple tree, woods, hills, dales, and lakes highlight the natural landscape of Canada.

• Agriculture and Rural Economy

  The farmer splitting fence rails and the yeoman singing in the woods reflect rural life and agricultural labor.

Characters to notice

• Queen Victoria

  Implied as the mother of the Prince of Wales, the future king.

Key passages

• “In his long voyage o’er the sea, To where doth grow the maple tree, May he be blest with pleasant gales, The coming man, the Prince of Wales.”

  May the Prince have a safe sea journey to Canada, the land of the maple tree.

  Wishes for a favorable voyage and arrival.

• “The maple grows but in good soil, Where nature doth reward for toil The farmer splitting his fence rails, He welcome bids the Prince of Wales.”

  The maple tree thrives in fertile soil, just as the farmer's hard work is rewarded; the farmer himself welcomes the Prince.

  Connects the natural abundance of Canada to the farmer's labor and hospitality.

• “Round the brow of our future chief We’ll weave a wreath of maple leaf, For o’er broad Canada prevails Kind feelings to the Prince of Wales.”

  We will crown our future king with a wreath of maple leaves, symbolizing the goodwill that Canada holds for him.

  Emphasizes the symbolic use of the maple leaf as a token of Canadian affection.