Podcast
Questions and Answers
What broke into a mist with bells?
What broke into a mist with bells?
Who is described as being on the house-tops now?
Who is described as being on the house-tops now?
What is happening to the person's wrists?
What is happening to the person's wrists?
Who is described as dropping down dead in triumphs?
Who is described as dropping down dead in triumphs?
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What does the person think is happening to their forehead?
What does the person think is happening to their forehead?
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Who do people say has the best sight at the Shambles' Gate?
Who do people say has the best sight at the Shambles' Gate?
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Study Notes
The Poem's Setting and Imagery
- The poem is set on a specific day, exactly one year after a significant event.
- The atmosphere is festive, with roses and myrtle, but also chaotic, with house-roofs heaving and church-spires flaming.
The Speaker's Experience
- The speaker is reflecting on the past year, and their actions have led to their current situation.
- They had asked for the sun, but instead, they gave it to their friends to keep.
- The speaker claims to have done everything possible, but now they are reaping what they have sown.
The Current State of Affairs
- The crowd has dispersed, and only a few people remain at the windows.
- The best view is at the Shambles' Gate, or at the foot of the scaffold, implying a sense of execution or punishment.
The Speaker's Punishment
- The speaker is walking in the rain, and their wrists are bound by a rope.
- They are being stoned by people for their past mistakes.
- The speaker's forehead is bleeding, suggesting physical harm.
Conclusion and Reflection
- The speaker is acknowledging their mistakes and the consequences of their actions.
- The poem raises questions about accountability and redemption, with the speaker suggesting that they are safer now, implying a sense of acceptance or resignation.
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Description
Test your knowledge of Victorian poetry with this quiz based on a poem reflecting on a past event. Explore themes of love, memory, and regret in this literary quiz.
