Songs of the Springtides and Birthday Ode / Taken from The Collected Poetical Works of Algernon Charles / Swinburne—Vol. III

Name: Songs of the Springtides and Birthday Ode / Taken from The Collected Poetical Works of Algernon Charles / Swinburne—Vol. III
Author: Algernon Charles Swinburne

By Algernon Charles Swinburne

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Poetry

About This Book

A collection of lyric poems and an extended ode blends maritime and classical imagery with a highly rhetorical, musical voice. Scenes of shore and sea, mythic births, and votive addresses recur alongside meditations on love, death, memory, and the need for liberty. Language favors dense allusion, lush sensory detail, and varied forms from short songs to longer narrative and celebratory pieces. Themes of resistance to oppression, the power of song, and hope versus mourning give the poems moral urgency while sustaining a sensuous, rhythmic intensity.

About the Author

Algernon Charles Swinburne

Algernon Charles Swinburne (1837-1909) was an English poet, playwright, and novelist known for his lyrical and often controversial works. A prominent figure in the Victorian literary scene, he is celebrated for his innovative use of meter and form, particularly in his poetry collections such as "Poems & Ballads." Swinburne's themes often explore love, nature, and the human condition, infused with a sense of rebellion against societal norms. His notable plays, including "Atalanta in Calydon" and "Chastelard," showcase his dramatic talents and deep engagement with classical themes. Swinburne's literary contributions have left a lasting impact on English literature, influencing subsequent generations of poets.