A vision of life

Chapter 14: A WORD TO THE CZAR

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About This Book

A sequence of lyrical and visionary poems that probe human experience through nature, memory, and spiritual reflection. Imagery moves from intimate domestic details to wild and mythic landscapes while meters shift between compact lyrics and more elaborate, Elizabethan-influenced lines. recurring concerns include loss and consolation, the passage of time, faith and renewed hope, and occasional public or allegorical addresses. A reflective voice oscillates between melancholy and affirmation, transforming everyday objects and moments into metaphysical insight. The work favors careful reading to appreciate its subtle verbal music, disciplined metrical shaping, and layered symbolism.

A WORD TO THE CZAR

(Penned on “Vladimir’s Day” January 22, 1905.)

Thou great Usurper of the Liberty

Of hapless Men and Maids, this gory shame

Shall wrap thee in a livid Cloak of Flame

Ere days have swoll’n to years. We who are free,

Who owe no fouling bond of Tyranny,

We look at Thee, and execrate thy Name:

Nor in our Vision art thou quit of blame

That by the hand of him who stood for thee

This bloody deed was done. Across the Years,

And from the lips of peoples one and all,

A mighty curse rolls on, to reach His ears

Who silently surveys thy hastening fall:—

Soon may His Might pluck from thy reeking Hand

Thy Batôn of a self-usurped command!